The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup held in Australia and New Zealand proved to be a testing ground of both triumphs and tribulations for the Super Falcons of Nigeria. Amidst an arena of international competition, the team showcased remarkable spirit, tactical prowess, and unyielding determination against some of the world’s most elite opponents. Their performances on the field were a testament to their dedication and skill, yet their campaign was marked by off-field turmoil, as financial disputes with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) cast a shadow over their achievements.
Throughout the tournament, the Super Falcons demonstrated their mettle in the face of adversity. Their prowess on the pitch was evident in their strategic play, defensive solidarity, and tenacity. However, the splendor of their on-field achievements was tarnished by the discord stemming from contractual disagreements and unpaid bonuses with the NFF. These conflicts cast a stark contrast against their sporting achievements, underscoring the challenges faced by the team off the field.
SportsLive looks at the encouraging journey the Super Falcons made on the global stage, delving into their achievements, the intricate contractual disputes that marred their experience, and forward-looking recommendations to harness their potential for future growth and success.
Placed in Group B alongside co-host Australia, Olympic gold medalists Canada, and a resolute Ireland side, the Super Falcons embarked on a challenging quest, against higher-ranked adversaries, to secure a spot in the knockout stages. Their opening match against Canada resulted in a hard-fought 0-0 draw, a testament to the exceptional goalkeeping prowess of Chiamaka Nnadozie, who stopped a penalty against the veteran Christine Sinclair, and the unwavering commitment of the defensive unit. Spearheaded by the seasoned leadership of Onome Ebi, the backline exhibited a tireless work ethic, meticulously organised to stave off Australia’s rapid transitions and aerial bombardments. This disciplined defensive display set the tone for the team’s tournament journey.
In a thrilling encounter against Australia, the Super Falcons showcased their ruthlessness on the counter-attack. Asisat Oshoala’s clinical finish, after latching onto the ball from a defensive mix-up, secured a 3-2 victory. The defensive foundation held firm once again, aided by Rasheedat Ajibade’s adept hold-up play and seamless linkup with wing orchestrators like Christy Ucheibe. This synergy, from the backline to strike force, allowed the team to transition fluidly from defense to attack, navigating pressure with remarkable composure. Though their clash with Australia ended in another deadlocked 0-0, it marked a turning point in the team’s mindset. Despite being under pressure from the start, the Super Falcons displayed unwavering belief and determination. Halimatu Ayinde’s display in the defensive midfield position gave the Super Falcons a rigidity at the centre and the overall performance underlined the team’s mental fortitude and tactical adaptability. Coach Randy Waldrum’s strategic adjustments throughout the group stage showed the team’s flexibility and resilience on the grand stage.
Finishing unbeaten and second in their group, the Super Falcons ventured into the Round of 16 to face England in an enthralling contest. Their organisation, industrious work rate, and potent counter-attacking threat frustrated England throughout the match. Nigeria had the European champions on the ropes for most of the latter stages of the tie, especially after initial nerves had settled.
Ashley Plumptre, one of those whose attempts came off the woodwork, put in a player of the match display, constantly turning up against her old mates. An out-of-form Oshoala remained a live threat in front but the goals failed to materialise even after Nigeria gained a numerical advantage with the sending off of Lauren James in the 87th minute for stamping on Michelle Alozie. After extra time, with the same still goalless, penalties were required to separate the sides. Unfortunately, it was England that prevailed, but the Super Falcons departed the tournament with heads held high, having pushed a tournament favourite to the brink.
The emergence of youthful talents like Plumptre, Osinachi Ohale, Francisca Odega, and Rasheedat Ajibade, Toni Payne, Oluwatosin Blessing Demehin, and the ever reliable Nnadozie, who conceded just two goals in open play of four World Cup matches, provided a glimpse of a promising future. These rising stars seamlessly complemented the experience of stalwarts like Desire Oparanozie, Onome Ebi, and Asisat Oshoala throughout their World Cup campaign. This harmonious blend of skills and leadership laid a foundation for sustained success in the years ahead.
However, amidst the triumphs achieved on the field, the Super Falcons’ participation in the World Cup was mired by acrimonious disputes with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), casting a shadow over their remarkable journey. The harmony they displayed during their matches was contrasted by discordant notes emanating from contractual disagreements and financial grievances.
Players voiced their discontentment over a litany of outstanding financial matters. Match bonuses, daily allowances, and participation fees from several matches dating back to 2021 remained unpaid, eroding the trust between the team and the NFF. Allegations arose regarding the non-disbursement of bonus payments, a reward system meant to recognise victories and draws with cash rewards during the World Cup.
The team’s head coach, Randy Waldrum, utilised social media platforms to expose his predicament, revealing that he had gone without wages for seven of the fourteen months of his tenure. Waldrum also drew attention to the lack of key support staff, such as an assistant coach and video analyst, stressing the need for greater accountability from the NFF especially as he knew FIFA gave countries preparing for the World Cup as much as $960,000 to assist.
In a tense exchange, the NFF retorted by branding Waldrum as an “incompetent loudmouth,” denying his accusation of their interference in squad selection and undermining the Technical Committee’s authority. This public spat further strained the relationship between the team’s leadership and the Federation.
Beyond financial matters, players also bemoaned the NFF’s neglect of investments in essential resources. Insufficient funding for facilities, equipment, coaching, training, and medical support, especially for women’s football, prompted allegations of neglect. The Super Falcons argued that the NFF did not adequately value women’s football and failed to provide the necessary infrastructure for its development. The international players’ union FIFPRO rallied behind the Super Falcons, publicly supporting their grievances and urging the NFF to meet its contractual obligations. The spectre of potential legal action underscored the gravity of the situation, amplifying the urgency for resolution.
While the Super Falcons performed beyond expectations, there are clear avenues for improvements within various aspects of their setup. Tactically, a shift towards more structured possession play is advisable. The team often ceded possession to elite opponents, necessitating a defensive stance. By emphasising controlled buildup and precise ball circulation, the Super Falcons can exert greater influence over matches, reducing the need to absorb pressure and offering more avenues for offensive creativity.
The Super Falcons’ set piece routines lacked diversity, presenting an opportunity for improvement. Incorporating intricate corner and free kick variations could offer an additional dimension to their attacking prowess. The Round of 16 match against England highlighted the potential impact of set pieces, suggesting the need for enhanced routines.
Flexibility in formations and tactics during matches is another area for development. While the team predominantly employed rigid 4-4-2 or 4-3-3 formations, embracing more fluid shapes with interchanging personnel can render their strategy less predictable. This adaptability would make it harder for opponents to anticipate their game plan and counteract their approach.
Directing attention to the future, bolstering the youth development pipeline is of paramount importance. Expanding grassroots initiatives, forging partnerships with local academies, intensifying coaching clinics, and establishing a comprehensive scouting network will enhance the pool of emerging talent. A rich talent base ensures a sustainable pipeline of skilled players, fortifying the team’s prospects over the long term.
Furthermore, investing in video analysis tools and analytics software can offer data-driven insights for refined decision-making. This technology-driven approach can aid the coaching staff in refining tactics and opposition scouting. The ability to adapt strategies based on statistical trends spotted in the data would confer a strategic advantage on the team.
Off the field, the NFF must prioritise resolving the outstanding contractual disputes and payments with players and staff immediately. Greater funding and support for facilities and programs catered specifically for women’s football is required from the Federation. Streamlining communication channels between the NFF and Super Falcons would help prevent future misunderstandings or feelings of neglect.
Heading into the future, concentrated efforts around enhancing technical play, expanding development pathways, and improving the relationship with the NFF can help elevate the Super Falcons to even higher levels of success.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
