Nigeria’s Women’s National Football Team, the Super Falcons, experienced a heart-wrenching penalty shootout defeat against England in their Women’s World Cup last 16 clash held in Brisbane on Monday. However, amidst the disappointment, there’s a clear indication that this team is on an upward trajectory, ready to flourish if given the chance to progress further.

Throughout the match, the Super Falcons exhibited an impressive display of skill and determination, creating numerous opportunities against the European champions, England. Their standout performance of the tournament was saved for the final moments, during which they showcased their prowess. Despite this, the team’s efforts were thwarted twice by the width of the goalpost culminating in a goalless draw and then the pressure of the penalty shootout sealed their fate.

In the tournament, the Super Falcons defied their world ranking of 40, showcasing a harmonious blend of speed, strength, and strategic coordination on the field.

Randy Waldrum, the team’s coach, expressed his admiration for his players in the aftermath of the loss to England. He stated, “The entire tournament, they’ve been nothing short of exceptional. If we realistically evaluate, we haven’t truly lost a game.”

He further elaborated, “We’ve challenged the Olympic gold medalists (Canada) and the reigning European champions, managing clean sheets in both encounters. Our opponents included the host nation (Australia) and Ireland, a top 20 team, and we emerged unscathed.”

“I hope observers recognize the abundant talent within our team. With a touch of structure and meticulous organization, coupled with the necessary resources, we possess the potential to become prominent contenders on the global stage,” Waldrum emphasized.

However, while the Super Falcons demonstrated brilliance on the field, they were entangled in off-field controversies related to compensation. Waldrum vocally criticized the Nigeria Football Federation for their handling of the matter, putting his own position at risk.

There exists a segment of detractors who may challenge his stance. If Waldrum were to depart, the team’s future would appear uncertain, and several players might contemplate alternative career paths.

“I stand proud of my team. My desire is to continue leading this team forward and focusing on our Olympics aspirations for the upcoming year. Nevertheless, the decision isn’t within my purview,” Waldrum conceded.

In a recent podcast preceding the tournament, he disclosed that he was owed seven months’ worth of wages, with certain players not receiving payments for up to two years.

“At some juncture, a realization must dawn regarding the everyday intricacies involving how the federation treats its players and provides the requisite resources for effective training, travel, and related matters,” Waldrum conveyed to reporters ahead of the tournament.

However, these concerns are considerations for another day. Presently, Nigeria warrants commendation for the exceptional quality showcased on the field and the untapped potential of the squad to achieve greater feats.

“Our intention is to not only savor current successes but also to persistently advance upon our return to Nigeria,” emphasized Waldrum.

“I haven’t been in very many games that were so intense as this one tonight. We were not under-estimating them at all and they showed tonight what a good team they have. They were very well organised, very physical, very athletic, and they pressed a little higher”, England coach Sarina Wiegman said of the Super Falcons.