Nigerian defender Nicole Payne joins Orlando Pride

National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) side Orlando Pride has announced the signing of Nigerian defender Nicole Payne to a one-year contract through the 2026 season on a free transfer.

​The announcement was made via the club’s website on Friday as they unveiled their new signings ahead of the upcoming season.

Reacting to the addition, Orlando Pride Head Coach Seb Hines was excited to have Payne join the ranks, expressing his belief that the team will be improved by her arrival.

“As we look to add depth and quality players to our roster ahead of the 2026 season, we are so happy to bring Seven, Cara and Nicole (Payne) on board with us.

They all provide different strengths while still maintaining the versatility that we look for in players that we want to bring in. We look forward to integrating them with the squad and helping them develop both on and off the field.”

The Nigerian international joins Orlando Pride as a free agent after a previous stint with the Portland Thorns, where she made 19 appearances after joining on a permanent transfer from French side Paris Saint-Germain. However, she missed the 2025 NWSL season due to an injury sustained during the preseason.

​Payne is no stranger to the NWSL, having also played collegiately for the University of Southern California, where she scored three goals in 16 matches. Before becoming a Trojan, she spent three years at West Virginia University, recording four goals and three assists in 53 matches and making two NCAA Tournament appearances.

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