Nigeria's Super Falcons Express Frustration over Lack of Play Opportunities

The Nigeria's Super Falcons players, led by captain Rasheedat Ajibade, have voiced their frustrations about the team's lack of game time during the final window of FIFA's Women's International Match Calendar. The 10-time African champions were without any friendly matches during the last window of 2025, a period crucial for teams preparing for the upcoming Women's Africa Cup of Nations in March. Ajibade, alongside defenders Ashleigh Plumptre, Rinsola Babajide, Christy Ucheibe, and Michelle Alozie, took to social media to express their disappointment by sharing a meme. The meme, originally created by a content creator, criticized the NFF for the absence of confirmed friendly matches for the Super Falcons as they gear up for WAFCON. Despite being the defending WAFCON champions, Nigeria's last competitive outing was back in October when they overcame Benin Republic to secure their place in next year's tournament. With no more friendly games scheduled until the WAFCON commences, the Super Falcons are left with limited opportunities to come together as a team, except for possible pre-tournament practice matches. An unnamed team official echoed the players' sentiments, acknowledging the less than ideal scenario, stating, "Just like the players, I think we are all disappointed that we did not get to play any friendlies this FIFA window, but we will still try to do our best when the time comes." Despite inquiries from ESPN, NFF officials remained silent on the reasons behind the team not having any fixtures in the recent window. While the Super Falcons remained inactive, other top women's teams in Africa were actively participating in matches. South Africa, looking to reclaim their title, defeated two-time finalists Morocco 2-0 in coach Desire Ellis's return. Morocco had previously played out a 1-1 draw against Burkina Faso before facing South Africa. Ghana tested their mettle against European champions England, Zambia emerged victorious in a three-nation tournament, and Algeria and Kenya engaged in competitive fixtures. The 2026 WAFCON, doubling as Africa's FIFA Women's World Cup qualifiers, promises intense competition as teams vie for the top four spots to represent the continent on the global stage.