National Sports Commission (NSC) Director General Bukola Olopade has urged the Super Falcons to put their WAFCON disappointment behind them and secure victory against South Africa in Thursday’s crucial 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup playoff, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.
Nigeria’s hopes of automatic qualification were ended by a 1-0 quarter-final defeat to Cameroon at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, but the 10-time African champions still have an opportunity to reach the World Cup through the inter-confederation playoffs.
Olopade believes the Super Falcons must quickly move on from their setback and focus entirely on the decisive encounter with Desiree Ellis’ Banyana Banyana at the Moulay Rachid Stadium in Casablanca.
“The Super Falcons remain Africa’s biggest football brand and the pride of the continent; therefore, the rare loss to Cameroon should not define them because we know how good they are,” Olopade told the NSC media.
The NSC chief also reminded the players of the strong support they continue to enjoy from Nigerians and urged them to give their best against South Africa.
“The girls have brought us tremendous joy over the years, and I want them to know that Nigerians are definitely behind them, more than ever before, even as they play this crucial game tonight.”
Victory over South Africa would move Nigeria into the inter-confederation playoff stage, keeping their hopes of qualifying for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup alive.