The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has apologised to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians following the Super Falcons’ failure to secure direct qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup at the ongoing Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), Trybal News reports.
NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau, speaking on behalf of the federation’s Executive Committee, the Super Falcons and the wider Nigerian football family, expressed regret over the setback, acknowledging the disappointment it has caused supporters across the country and around the world.
The federation specifically apologised to President Tinubu, whose administration has provided significant support and rewards to Nigerian athletes, particularly following the Super Falcons’ previous WAFCON triumph.
“We recognise the disappointment this result has caused millions of Nigerians who passionately support and identify with the Super Falcons,” the NFF said, adding that the team had entered the tournament carrying the hopes of the nation.
Despite missing out on a direct World Cup qualification ticket, the Super Falcons still have a route to the 2027 tournament through the CAF play-off pathway. The NFF said the team remains determined to secure one of the two available CAF play-off places and subsequently qualify through the FIFA play-off tournament.
The federation also pledged to conduct an honest review of the team’s preparation, technical planning, logistics and overall operations to identify areas requiring improvement.
“We hear the disappointment of Nigerians, we share it and we accept our responsibility. But we are not giving up,” the NFF stated.
The federation urged Nigerians to continue supporting the Super Falcons as they regroup and pursue the remaining route to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
