Don’t give up on Super Falcons, NFF begs Tinubu, Nigerians
The Nigeria Football Federation has apologised to the Federal Government and Nigerians following the Super Falcons’ disappointing defeat to Cameroon in the 2026 WAFCON quarter-finals.
Nigeria suffered a 1-0 loss to Cameroon on Sunday to crash out of the tournament in the last eight for the first time in the history of the competition.
The apex football body in Nigeria urged the country not to give up on the Super Falcons while also apologising to the Federal Government in a statement released on Tuesday.
The statement read: “We recognise the disappointment this result has caused millions of Nigerians who passionately support and identify with the Super Falcons.
“The team went into the competition carrying the hopes of the nation and the enormous goodwill and support of the Federal Government, and we regret that we were unable to deliver the result expected at this stage.”
The Nigeria Football Federation tendered a special apology to President Bola Tinubu, while praising his support for the Super Falcons and sports in Nigeria generally.
“Mr. President has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to Nigerian sports and, particularly, to the development and welfare of women in sports,” the statement said. It recalled the substantial rewards, national honours, houses and reception given to the Super Falcons after their previous WAFCON triumph, as well as continued support for the Super Eagles.
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“It is therefore with genuine humility and regret that we acknowledge that we have not been able to repay that confidence with the outcome expected at this stage of the competition. We sincerely apologise to Mr. President and deeply appreciate his continued interest, encouragement and investment in Nigerian football.”
The NFF promised to support the Super Falcons as they aim to qualify for the World Cup through the intercontinental playoffs.
“We hear the disappointment of Nigerians, we share it and we accept our responsibility. But we are not giving up,” the statement added. “Our resolve is to ensure that the Super Falcons return stronger, fight harder and do everything possible to make Mr. President, the Federal Government and Nigerians proud once again.”
The Super Falcons will take on South Africa in the continental play-off on Thursday.
Victory over South Africa will hand the Super Falcons one of the continental play-off tickets.
The two qualifying teams from the African play-offs will advance to the intercontinental play-off tournament to battle for the final remaining spots.
The tournament will be played across two windows, with the first phase scheduled for November and December 2026.
