As the FIFA Women’s World Cup draws closer, excitement should be filling the football air in Nigeria as the Super Falcons, a team with a storied history and nine African Championship titles, prepare to compete on the global stage once again.
However, behind the scenes, a disheartening narrative is unfolding, highlighting a shocking lack of preparations and a cloud of controversy surrounding the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and Coach Randy Waldrum.
With barely 35 days remaining until the tournament kicks off, it is alarming to note that the Super Falcons have yet to commence their preparations. This glaring oversight is not only a disservice to the team but also reflects poorly on the NFF’s commitment. The importance of adequate preparation cannot be overstated, especially in an event as prestigious as the FIFA Women’s World Cup, where the competition is fierce and unforgiving.
Rumours circulating within football quarters suggest that some influential figures within the NFF are attempting to force the inclusion of certain players into the squad, driven by the potential financial gains from FIFA’s minimum appearance fee of $30,000 per player. Such allegations, if true, undermine the integrity of the team selection process, casting doubt on the professionalism and fairness of those responsible for shaping the Super Falcons’ destiny.
Adding fuel to the fire, it has been in the limelight that the NFF is burdened with a backlog of unpaid salaries owed to the American gaffer, Randy Waldrum. While financial struggles can undoubtedly hinder motivation and focus, it is disheartening to witness the resulting indifference from the coach towards the team’s preparations.
The Super Falcons deserve a dedicated leader who will rally the troops, foster unity, and guide them towards success on the global stage. The neglect of these duties by Waldrum could have profound consequences for Nigeria’s performance in the World Cup. Waldrum although, cannot be fully blamed as his attention fully lies with his main job, the University of Pittsburgh Panthers Women’s Soccer Team in the United States.
The ramifications of these poor preparations and controversies extend far beyond mere disappointment. They risk tarnishing the reputation of Nigerian women’s football and undermining the progress that has been made in recent years.
Nigeria has long been a powerhouse in African women’s football, serving as a source of inspiration for aspiring players across the continent. However, if the current trajectory continues, the Super Falcons may find themselves ill-equipped and unprepared to face the world’s best teams, potentially leading to a subpar performance that would diminish Nigeria’s standing in the international football community.
The clock is ticking, and the Super Falcons deserve every opportunity to showcase their immense talent and make Nigeria proud. It is time for the NFF to rise to the occasion, rectify their missteps, and prioritize the welfare of the team. Nigerian women’s football deserves better, and the time for change is now.