Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Philip Shaibu, has urged the Super Falcons to put their WAFCON disappointment behind them and focus on securing victory against South Africa in their upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifier, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.
Shaibu made the call after Nigeria’s WAFCON campaign ended with a quarter-final defeat to Cameroon, urging the players to quickly shift their attention to Thursday’s crucial encounter with the Banyana Banyana.
The NIS boss reminded the Super Falcons of their status as Africa’s most successful women’s national team, having won the continental championship a record 10 times. He urged the players to draw confidence from that history as they prepare for another important assignment.
“Setbacks are part of sport, but what defines champions is their ability to bounce back,” Shaibu said.
He also called on the coaching staff and technical crew to maintain a positive atmosphere and ensure the players are mentally and physically prepared for the battle against South Africa.
According to Shaibu, the Super Falcons must take the “never-die Nigerian spirit” into the qualifier and demonstrate the resilience that has made them a dominant force in African women’s football.
The NIS chief further appealed to Nigerians to continue supporting the team rather than dwelling on the disappointment of their WAFCON exit.
“Rather than criticism, Nigerians should pray for them and rally behind them as they chase the World Cup ticket,” he said.
Nigeria will face South Africa on Thursday, August 13, 2026, with the Super Falcons hoping to respond positively to their continental setback and strengthen their bid for qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Shaibu remains confident that Nigeria’s experience, quality and determination can help the team return to winning ways and take another step towards securing a place at the global tournament.