Nigeria FA apologises to President Tinubu, Nigerians after Super Falcons’ WAFCON setback

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has apologised to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians following the Super Falcons’ disappointing 1-0 defeat to Cameroon in the quarter-finals of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

Nigeria’s elimination brought an end to the defending champions’ hopes of progressing to the semi-finals and securing automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

The defeat has sparked disappointment among supporters and stakeholders, with the NFF acknowledging the weight of expectations placed on the Super Falcons ahead of the tournament.

However, the president of the Nigeria FA Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau HAS expressed regret over the outcome and apologised for failing to meet the expectations of Nigerians.

“We recognise the disappointment this result has caused millions of Nigerians who passionately support and identify with the Super Falcons,” Gusau said. “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.”

Gusau also acknowledged the significant support President Tinubu has offered Nigerian sports, particularly women’s football, while highlighting the recognition and rewards given to the Super Falcons following their previous WAFCON success.

“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.

The football governing body admitted that the team’s quarter-final exit fell short of the expectations that accompanied the squad into the tournament and expressed regret that the confidence and backing received from the Federal Government could not be matched by the desired sporting outcome.

“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 Super Falcons will now have to pursue qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup through the remaining qualification route after missing out on the automatic qualification places secured by the teams that advanced further in the continental tournament.

The NFF’s apology comes as attention turns to assessing the team’s performance, addressing areas of concern and ensuring that the Super Falcons remain competitive on the international stage.

Nigeria entered the WAFCON as one of the tournament favourites and carried significant expectations following their previous success. However, the defeat to Cameroon means the reigning African champions will leave the competition earlier than anticipated.

The Nigerian football authority is now expected to work with the technical team and other relevant stakeholders to evaluate the campaign and determine the next steps for the Super Falcons as they begin preparations for the World Cup qualification playoffs and future international assignments.