In a landmark achievement for women’s football, London City Lionesses have secured promotion to the Women’s Super League (WSL) for the first time in the club’s history. This historic moment was confirmed following a dramatic 2-2 draw against Birmingham City on the final day of the Women’s Championship season. Among the standout performers during this campaign is Nigerian international Rofiat Imuran, whose impact has been vital to the club’s success.
Rofiat Imuran joined London City Lionesses in October 2024 after leaving French side Stade de Reims. The 20-year-old defender signed a three-year contract and brought top-tier European experience, having helped Reims achieve back-to-back top-six finishes in France’s top flight.
She also boasts significant international experience, having represented Nigeria in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup. Her speed, tactical intelligence, and attacking instincts down the flank quickly made her a valuable asset to the Lionesses.
Head coach Jocelyn Prêcheur said of her, “She’s very fast, left-footed, and likes to attack the space behind the defenders. Rofiat still needs to develop, but this is a great opportunity for her growth.”
The draw with Birmingham City was enough for London City Lionesses to finish two points ahead of their closest rivals, confirming their rise to the WSL. This promotion is particularly significant as it makes them the first independent, women-only club to reach England’s top flight, a league traditionally dominated by clubs affiliated with men’s Premier League teams.
With promotion secured, London City Lionesses are now preparing for their debut in the WSL. The challenge will be to build a squad capable of competing at the highest level. Imuran is expected to play a central role in the team’s plans moving forward.
As the club steps onto the biggest stage in English women’s football, Rofiat Imuran’s rise continues, and all eyes will be on how she shapes the Lionesses’ WSL debut.
