NWSL club Orlando Pride secure the services of Nigerian left-back Nicole Payne after her stint with Portland Thorns.

Orlando Pride have completed the signing of Super Falcons defender Nicole Payne, reports Sportblits.com.
The 24-year-old left-back joins the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) club as a free agent, following her departure from Portland Thorns.
Key highlights of Payne’s career:
- Payne was signed by Portland Thorns from French giants Paris Saint-Germain, where she had previously played.
- She made 19 appearances for Portland Thorns.
- Before turning professional, Payne played collegiately at the University of Southern California, scoring three goals.
- Nicole switched her international allegiance to Nigeria in 2021, after previously representing the United States.
- She has made two appearances for the 10-time African champions, the Super Falcons.
The move to Orlando Pride provides Payne with an opportunity to showcase her talent in one of the world’s most competitive women’s leagues and strengthen the Pride’s defensive options for the upcoming season.
