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The Nigerian Football Federation announced the death of former Super Falcons goalkeeper Bidemi Aluko-Olaseni.
The Nigerian football community is mourning the loss of Ekiti-born goalkeeper Bidemi Aluko-Olaseni, a revered former goalkeeper for the Super Falcons, who valiantly battled cancer for nine years.
The Nigerian Football Federation (@thenff) expressed their sorrow and extended condolences to her family through a poignant tweet, reflecting the collective grief of the football world.
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Her battle with cancer
Back in 2019, Bidemi Aluko courageously revealed her battle with a rare breast cancer, diagnosed in 2017, while playing for Rivers Angels, according to a report from TVC News. After undergoing a six-hour surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation treatments, Aluko shared her struggles with worsening pain.
Through a poignant Facebook post then, she disclosed her need for financial assistance to cover ten Herceptin treatments, each costing N470,000. In a conversation with BBC Africa in 2020, she revealed how the pandemic derailed her treatment and how the NFF supported her treatment with $13,000 (£10,000).
However, she sought even more financial assistance as her husband lost his job due to the pandemic and her treatment costs compounded. She fought courageously against the illness but has now succumbed to death at age 30.
A Beacon of Resilience and Skill
Bidemi Aluko-Olaseni's tenure as a goalkeeper for the Super Falcons was marked by exceptional skill and an indomitable spirit.
Her stints with clubs such as Rivers Angels and Sunshine Queens highlighted her skill, leadership, and ability to inspire teammates and fans. Her departure is a profound loss to the sport, but her legacy will continue to inspire those who knew her and future generations in Nigerian football.
Honouring Bidemi's Legacy
The battle against cancer that Aluko-Olaseni faced was fought with the same tenacity she displayed on the football field. Her struggle and resilience have inspired many, serving as a testament to her strength of character.
The Nigerian Football Federation's message, "We are sad to hear of the passing of former @NGSuper_Falcons goalkeeper, Bidemi Aluko-Olaseni after an eight-year battle with cancer. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. May her gentle soul rest in peace," encapsulates the deep respect and admiration held for Bidemi within the football community and beyond.
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