A female footballer has died, while seven other players are reportedly in critical condition following a road accident involving the team bus of Ayisat Yusuf Football Academy in Ogun State.

The accident occurred on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, while the academy’s team was travelling from Ikenne to Lagos for a league match at the Olympic Pitch, Sonya, Ijesha.

The team bus was reportedly carrying 18 players and three officials when a trailer rammed into it from behind, causing extensive damage to the vehicle and leaving several occupants injured.

The accident has thrown the academy and the wider football community into mourning, with attention now focused on the treatment and recovery of the injured victims.

Seven players, driver sustain serious injuries

Apart from the player confirmed dead, seven other footballers are said to be battling critical injuries following the collision.

The driver of the academy’s bus also sustained serious injuries in the accident, while the trailer driver reportedly fled the scene after the crash.

The injured players and the driver were reportedly taken to the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OSUTH) for medical attention.

However, the identity of the deceased player and further details about the circumstances surrounding the crash were not provided in the report.

Academy CEO appeals for support

The academy’s Chief Executive Officer, Ayisat Yusuf, who also serves as an assistant coach of the Super Falcons, expressed sadness over the tragedy.

Yusuf appealed to members of the football community and the general public to support the academy and pray for the injured players and driver.

The incident has also attracted concern from prominent figures in Nigerian football, with Remo Stars owner, Kunle Soname, indicating his support for the academy.

Similarly, the Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association, Haji Gafar, reportedly contacted the academy to establish the situation and obtain updates on the victims.

Football community mourns

The crash has raised fresh concerns about the safety of teams travelling by road to honour football fixtures across the country.

For the Ayisat Yusuf Football Academy, a journey undertaken to fulfil a league commitment has turned into a devastating experience, with one of its players losing her life and several others requiring urgent medical attention.

As the academy and the football community await further updates, prayers and support have continued to be directed towards the injured players and their driver.

Condolences have also been extended to the family of the deceased footballer.