Nigeria Football Federation Executive Committee Member, Aisha Falode, has called on Nigerians to continue backing the Super Falcons as they push forward in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
In a statement, Falode said the team has earned the trust and respect of Nigerians through years of excellence, resilience, and commitment to the national colours.
Falode acknowledged that the result against Malawi was disappointing for both the team and supporters.
“The result against Malawi was undoubtedly disappointing. It was not the outcome the team worked tirelessly for, nor the result millions of Nigerians had hoped to celebrate. But I can say with confidence that no one feels that disappointment more deeply than the players and the technical crew themselves,” she said.
She added that one result does not define the quality of the team or the objectives that brought them to the tournament: securing Nigeria’s qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup and reclaiming the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title for a record-extending eleventh time.
Falode said the history of the Super Falcons shows the team’s ability to respond to setbacks with courage.
“Throughout their illustrious history, the Super Falcons have shown an extraordinary ability to rise after disappointment, respond with courage, and remind the world why they remain the benchmark of women’s football in Africa. I have every confidence that this generation will do the same,” she stated.
She noted that the players represent more than 200 million Nigerians and carry the support of the Federal Government, the National Sports Commission, the NFF, partners, and fans.
“As we look ahead, our focus must remain on the opportunities before us. This tournament is still alive, our objectives remain within reach, and every match presents another opportunity to demonstrate the true character of this team,” Falode said.
She urged Nigerians to replace doubt with belief and criticism with constructive support.
“Let us replace doubt with belief, criticism with constructive support, and disappointment with renewed hope. Our players need to know that the nation still believes in them because genuine support is never reserved only for moments of victory.”
In her message to the players, Falode encouraged them to remember their legacy and the young girls who look up to them.
“To our dear Super Falcons, remember who you are. Remember the legacy you represent and the millions of young girls who look up to you as symbols of possibility and inspiration. Continue to play with courage. Continue to believe in one another. Continue to honour the badge with the passion, discipline, and resilience that have always defined Nigerian champions.”
She concluded: “The Super Falcons have written some of the greatest chapters in African football history. I firmly believe they possess the quality, experience, unity, and character to write another. Nigeria believes in you. Nigeria stands with you. Keep believing. Keep fighting. Keep soaring.”
