Nigerian forward Olaiya Barakat Kikelomo is proving to be a formidable force in the Israeli Women’s Premier League, delivering standout performances for Asa Tel Aviv in the 2024/2025 season. The dynamic attacker has played in all 20 league matches, scoring five goals and registering seven assists, underlining her importance to the team’s attacking setup.
Her consistency and playmaking ability have been crucial for Asa Tel Aviv, who are pushing for a strong finish in the league. As the team prepares for a crucial match on Thursday night, Kikelomo is expected to play a pivotal role once again.
The 24-year-old forward, known for her pace, versatility, and goal-scoring ability, has a wealth of experience across different leagues. Having featured for clubs in Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Tanzania, and now Israel, she has developed into a complete attacker with a strong tactical awareness and technical skill set.
Reflecting on her international ambitions, Kikelomo revealed her readiness to represent the Super Falcons if given the opportunity.
“I have played for Nigeria’s U-17 team before, and I’m ready to play for the Super Falcons if called up. But it’s not by force—whenever the time is right, I’ll give my best,” she stated.
Born in Ilorin, Kwara State, Kikelomo’s football journey began in Lagos, where she honed her skills at Real Diamond Academy and Jagunmolu FC Youth Academy. She later joined Bayelsa Queens, where she made her mark, winning multiple domestic honors, including the Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) Premiership title in 2018, and finishing as an AITEO Cup silver medalist in 2016 and 2017.
Her exploits with Bayelsa Queens earned her a move to Tecno FC in Ivory Coast, and later Simba Queens in Tanzania, where she won the Serengeti Women’s Premier League (2021/2022) and played a crucial role in the team’s triumph in the CECAFA CAF Women’s Champions League Qualifiers (2022). She was also part of the squad that finished fourth at the CAF Women’s Champions League in Morocco in 2022.
Now thriving in Israel with Asa Tel Aviv, Kikelomo has demonstrated not only her goal-scoring ability but also her leadership and creative vision on the field. With her impressive performances this season, a Super Falcons call-up could be on the horizon, as Nigeria continues to scout for attacking reinforcements ahead of upcoming international competitions.
As Asa Tel Aviv prepares for their next match, all eyes will be on Kikelomo to once again deliver a performance that could further solidify her reputation as one of Nigeria’s rising stars in women’s football.
Bayelsa Queens in Nigeria 🇳🇬
Simbia Queens in Tanzania 🇹🇿
Israel Asa Tel Aviv🇮🇱
