NFF apologises to Tinubu, Nigerians over Falcons’ World Cup setback

The Nigeria Football Federation has apologised to President Bola Tinubu and Nigerians following the Super Falcons’ failure to secure direct qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

NFF President Ibrahim Gusau tendered the apology on behalf of the federation, the Super Falcons and the wider Nigerian football family in a statement issued on Tuesday.

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Gusau acknowledged the disappointment caused to millions of Nigerians who supported the team during their campaign at the ongoing Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

He also recognised the Federal Government’s support for the Super Falcons, particularly the recognition and rewards given to the team after their previous WAFCON triumph.

“We wish to extend a special and heartfelt apology to His Excellency, the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Federal Republic, Bola Tinubu, for this disappointment.

“It is 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,” Gusau said.

The NFF president also apologised to the National Assembly, National Sports Commission, sponsors, stakeholders and millions of Nigerian supporters at home and abroad.

Despite the setback, Gusau stressed that Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the 2027 Women’s World Cup remain alive through the CAF play-off route.

“A window of opportunity remains through the CAF play-off pathway, and the Super Falcons are determined to fight for one of the two available CAF play-off tickets,” he said.

He assured Nigerians that the NFF, technical team and players remained committed to securing the country’s place at the World Cup through the remaining qualification route.

Gusau added that the federation would conduct a comprehensive review of the team’s campaign, including its preparation, technical planning, logistics and overall operations.

“The NFF will also undertake an honest assessment of our preparation, technical planning, logistics and overall operations, with a determination to identify areas requiring improvement.

“We hear the disappointment of Nigerians, we share it and we accept our responsibility. But we are not giving up,” he added.