The Everton midfielder was on target as Nigeria secured a morale-boosting win ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
Asisat Oshoala opened the scoring from the penalty spot before Payne doubled the lead, giving the Super Falcons a comfortable 2-0 advantage at half-time.
Although Senegal pulled one back after the break, Nigeria held firm to claim the victory.
Speaking after the match, Payne admitted she was thrilled to finally get back on the scoresheet for the nine-time African champions.
”I’m happy to score (for the Falcons) after almost five years so just really good to do it here in Nigeria,” she said.
Nigeria, the defending champions, have been drawn in Group C alongside Zambia, Egypt and Malawi.
The tournament will also serve as Africa’s qualification pathway for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.