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Tag: SUPER FALCONS

  • Super Falcons’ call up for Cameroon  excites Olamide

    Super Falcons’ call up for Cameroon  excites Olamide

    Super Falcons‘ Bolaji Olamide is  excited  with  another opportunity to represent Nigeria and she affirmed that she would grab the chance with both hands if she gets playing time in the forthcoming doubleheader against  the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon.

    The Falcons were last involved in any game since last October when they beat the Algerians twice but they will slug it out with Cameroon in another two games on May 31st  and June 3rd.

    Read Also: NFF  hails Aluo over transformation of NNL   

    Olamide who received her first call up in October in the games with Algeria and played her first game as a second half substitute, said she would be fulfilled  if  get the chance to play against Cameroon and score her debut goal for Nigeria.

    “I’m actually Super excited for this great opportunity God gave me . There are so many amazing footballers out there but he chose me by his mercy,” Olamide told NationSport. “Well, it has been in my prayer point to ensure I have an outstanding performance and score on my debut game for my country if I’m giving opportunity to play. May God help me Amen.”

  • Nnadozie ‘orders’ Super Falcons to reclaim WAFCON title

    Nnadozie ‘orders’ Super Falcons to reclaim WAFCON title

    Goalkeeper  Chiamaka Nnadozie  has tipped the  Super Falcons  to  reclaim  the foremost  women’s continental prize at the forthcoming 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.

    The FC Paris goal-minder  who has been  twice awarded  the Africa’s Best Goalkeeper at the  CAF Awards, said it was painful that the Super  Falcons  lost  to their Moroccan counterparts  at the last   tournament, adding the  team  would be guided  as they  bid  for their  12th continental title. 

    Nnadozie admitted that the Super Falcons are  drawn in a ‘tricky’ Group B that houses  Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana hence  they must redouble their efforts  to reach the knockouts of the 2024 WAFCON.

     “People might think it’s a manageable group, but the reality is very different,” the 24-year-old  goal-minder, told  CAF’s website.  “Women’s football has made huge strides in recent years. “Every team is improving, working hard, and investing in development. We saw it in the last AFCON, where many of the favourites were shaken. No one can be underestimated anymore.

    “This group is tricky, and we have to treat it with the seriousness it deserves. Qualification won’t be handed to us we’ll need to earn it through hard work and discipline,” she noted.

     ‘Save  Hands’ as Nnadozie is fondly called, said it was a big honour to  fly  Nigeria’s flag with the Super Falcons: “Wearing the Super Falcons jersey means carrying a legacy. It means playing for the generations before us who won everything. The spotlight is always on us.”

    She further shared her optimism  of winning  the WAFCON title yet again after  being part of  the country’s winning team  of 2018 at the forthcoming   15th edition of the biennial women’s  championship due in Morocco between  July 5 and 26.

    Read Also: NFF mourns as 1980 AFCON winner  Bassey dies in Eket

    “To me,  the AFCON (WAFCON)  holds the same weight as a World Cup,” the former  Rivers Angel’s ‘ keeper who  was in goal for the Super Falcons at the 2019 and 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in France,  and Australia & New Zealand respectively, further  explained.  “The atmosphere, the stakes, the intensity it’s all there.

    “ I remember the 2022 edition in Morocco: packed stadiums, incredible supporters. You feel lifted by an entire continent.

    “And personally, I’ve never been the starting goalkeeper when we’ve won a title. This time, I want to lift that trophy from the pitch to play a real part in the victory,” she added.

  • Super Falcons’ Monday makes NWSL Team of the Week

    Super Falcons’ Monday makes NWSL Team of the Week

    Super Falcons‘ attacker Gift Monday was named in the NWSL Team of the Week (Week 5) after her delightful debut for Washington Spirit which she marked with a goal.

    Her inclusion came after scoring the lone goal in Washington Spirit’s hard-fought 1-0 win over Orlando Pride, a strike that not only secured all three points but also announced her arrival as a force to be reckoned with in American soccer.

    Monday’s goal wasn’t just a tap-in, it was a moment of instinct, power, and precision that encapsulated the 22-year-old’s growing reputation. Latching onto a loose ball in the box, she unleashed a clinical finish that left the goalkeeper with no chance and sent the Spirit fans into raptures.

    It was a fitting reward for a performance filled with relentless pressing, intelligent movement, and a hunger that lifted her team above a stubborn Orlando side.

    Read Also: NFF selects participants for CAF B-License Coaching Course

    Monday’s journey to the NWSL has been a testament to perseverance and talent. Already a regular for the Super Falcons, she brings not only goal-scoring flair but also a powerful physical presence and work ethic that aligns perfectly with the Spirit’s aggressive playing style.

    Her inclusion in the Team of the Week sees her rubbing shoulders with some of the league’s finest talents, including fellow Spirit players Aubrey Kingsbury, Tara McKeown, and Riley Bernal, as well as international stars like Diani Cascarino and Kenza Dali. It also highlights Washington Spirit’s growing dominance under coach Jonatan Giráldez, who himself was named Coach of the Week.

    With performances like this, Gift Monday is not just making waves in the NWSL, she’s laying the foundation for a legendary career on the global stage.

  • Falcons’ Monday  seals  three -year deal with Washington Spirit

    Falcons’ Monday  seals  three -year deal with Washington Spirit

    Super Falcons  striker, Gift Monday, has  been handed a three-year deal  by the Washington Spirit.

    The deal includes a 2028 team option and an undisclosed transfer fee paid to Spanish side UD Tenerife.

    “Gift has unique qualities as a forward and will add a new layer to our attacking third,” Spirit coach Jonathan Giraldez said. “We’re thrilled to welcome her to the team in the near future.”

    Read Also: NFF salutes Bassey, Danladi on government appointments

    Monday, 23, recorded 26 goal contributions in 65 matches with UD Tenerife from 2022-25. She previously played for Nigeria’s FC Robo and COD United Amazons.

    She made her senior debut for the Nigerian national team in 2019 and participated in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

    “I am excited to join the Washington Spirit family as I have long wanted to play for the club,” Monday said. “I can’t wait to start living the dream.”

  • Super Falcons remain in  36th  position globally

    Super Falcons remain in  36th  position globally

    Nigeria’s National Women’s team, the  Super Falcons have remained in unchanged  in 36th  spot in the latest FIFA Ranking released by the world football governing body yesterday.

    The Super Falcons have not played any match since the last FIFA ranking released on December 13th  due to club competitions. However, this hasn’t affected their standing.

    The team remain the top-ranked African nation, with South Africa following closely in second place, despite dropping four spots to 54th . Morocco secure third place in Africa and 60th  globally, while Zambia dropped two places to 64th but remain fourth-best in the continent.

    Read Also: Carloha, NFF seal partnership deal

    Globally, the top four teams retained their positions, with the United States leading, followed by World Champions Spain, Germany, and England. Japan rose to fifth, pushing Sweden out of the top five.

    The rest of the top 10 include Canada and Brazil who dropped on the ranking, as well as Korea DPR and the Netherlands who maintained their ninth and 10th positions respectively.

    Kenya made significant strides, climbing seven places to 142nd , while Tunisia dropped 11 spots to 89th , losing 43.79 points. On the other hand, Djibouti achieved a new highest rank, moving to 195th.

    The next FIFA Women’s Ranking will be released in 98 days on 12 June, 2025 and the Super Falcons will be aiming to improve their position by then.

  • Demehin tips Super Falcons to reclaim WAFCON title  

    Demehin tips Super Falcons to reclaim WAFCON title  

    Super Falcons defender Tosin Demehin believes  Nigeria has the right blend of players to reclaim the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) holding  next year  in Morocco..

    The last edition, also held in Morocco, saw the Super Falcons finishing  fourth — their second worst-ever placement in the tournament’s history since they ended in the same position in 2012 in Equatorial Guinea, missing out on a medal.

    Demehin, who has become a key figure in Nigeria’s defence, highlighted the importance of the tournament to her personally and to the nation.

     “WAFCON is extremely important, not just to me but to the entire continent,” Demehin said. “I am eager to be part of the tournament and experience playing on that stage for the first time,” she told SportsBoom.

    As the countdown to Africa’s most prestigious women’s football competition continues, the Galatasaray defender is focused on restoring Nigeria’s status as the continent’s most successful team.

     “My personal goal for WAFCON 2024 is for the team to have an outstanding tournament and to reclaim our glory,” she said. “We want to dominate African women’s football again, and I’m committed to helping us get there.”

    Demehin has adapted seamlessly to life at Galatasaray since joining the Turkish side from Reims last season, becoming a standout player for her club.

    Read Also: NFF holds match commissioners’ seminar in Asaba

    The 21-year-old’s rise to prominence began at the 2022 U-20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia, where she shone despite Nigeria’s round-of-16 exit after a 2-0 loss to the Netherlands. 

    Her performances earned her promotion to the Super Falcons, where she has cemented her place as a regular starter. She has since represented Nigeria at the Women’s World Cup and the Olympic Games.

    As teams like Zambia, Morocco, and defending champions South Africa continue to rise in African women’s football, Demehin believes the Super Falcons can reaffirm their position at the summit.

    The 15th  edition of WAFCON will see Morocco host the tournament for the second consecutive time. Nigeria, with 11 WAFCON titles, will be aiming to reclaim the crown and reassert their dominance in Africa.

  • CAF Awards: Akpabio, Uzodimma hail Lookman, Nnadozie, Super Falcons  

    CAF Awards: Akpabio, Uzodimma hail Lookman, Nnadozie, Super Falcons  

    President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio and Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, have both  congratulated  Ademola Lookman, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and the Super  Falcons  for their winning  feats  at the 2024 CAF Awards  held in Marrakech, Morocco on Monday. 

    While Ademola, the Atalanta  forward received the CAF Men’s Player of the Year Award, Nnadozie  and the Super Falcons  respectively bagged the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year and Women’s National Team of the Year for the second successive  times.   

    Akpabio, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh,  extolled Lookman’s exceptional skills and prowess,  saying: “I wish to congratulate one of our finest footballers and an international superstar, Ademola Lookman on his well-deserved  CAF Men’s Player of the Year.

    “This prestigious award is a testament to Lookman’s hard work, dedication, and exceptional skills on the football pitch.

    Read Also: NFF holds match commissioners’ seminar in Kaduna

    “I would also like to celebrate our amiable and talented Super Falcons goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, who has won the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award for the second consecutive year. Her outstanding performance is an inspiration to young Nigerian girls who aspire to excel in sports.

     “Furthermore, I commend the Super Falcons for emerging as the Women’s National Team of the Year. This achievement demonstrates the team’s resilience, teamwork, and commitment to excellence.

     “These awards are not only a proud moment for Nigerian football but also a reflection of our nation’s rich sporting talent. We are honoured to have such exceptional athletes representing Nigeria on the global stage.

    “The Senate and in deed the National Assembly under my leadership would continue to support sports through enabling laws and adequate appropriations to harness all the hidden talents in the country,” he added.

    Meanwhile, Governor   Uzodimma has described Nnadozie as a true ambassador of Imo State, Nigeria and Africa going by the way she commits herself to her craft.

    Taking to his social media handle, Governor Uzodimma said of Nnadozie: “It is with immense pride and joy that I congratulate our very own @nnadozie_chiamaka on emerging as the Goalkeeper of the Year (Women) at the #CAFAwards2024 for the second consecutive time. “

    “This prestigious recognition is an attestation to her perfect saves, flawless performances, and dedication to her craft. Chiamaka’s success reflects not just talent but also the hard work, discipline, and passion that she consistently brings to the game.

    “She has proven herself to be a true ambassador of Imo State, Nigeria and Africa at large, making us all proud on the global stage. As younger generations look up to her for inspiration, I encourage her to continue breaking boundaries and setting higher standards.

    “Congratulations once again, Chiamaka.”

  • CAF Awards: Akpabio hails Lookman, Nnadozie, Super Falcons for making Nigeria proud

    CAF Awards: Akpabio hails Lookman, Nnadozie, Super Falcons for making Nigeria proud

    President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has congratulated Nigeria’s Atalanta of Italy forward and Super Eagles goal poacher, Ademola Lookman for winning the CAF Men’s Player of the Year Award.

    Akpabio, in a statement by his special adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, also congratulated the Super Falcons goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, for emerging as the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year.

    He also hailed the national female team, the Super Falcons, for winning the Women’s National Team of the Year Award.

    The Senate President who extolled Lookman’s exceptional skills and prowess said: “I wish to congratulate one of our finest footballers and an international superstar, Ademola Lookman on his well-deserved win as the CAF Men’s Player of the Year.

    “This prestigious award is a testament to Lookman’s hard work, dedication, and exceptional skills on the football pitch.

    “I would also like to celebrate our amiable and talented Super Falcons goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, who has won the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award for the second consecutive year. Her outstanding performance is an inspiration to young Nigerian girls who aspire to excel in sports.

    “Furthermore, I commend the Super Falcons for emerging as the Women’s National Team of the Year. This achievement demonstrates the team’s resilience, teamwork, and commitment to excellence.

    Read Also: CAF Awards 2024: Lookman crowned 2024 CAF Player of the Year

    “These awards are not only a proud moment for Nigerian football but also a reflection of our nation’s rich sporting talent. We are honoured to have such exceptional athletes representing Nigeria on the global stage.

    “The Senate and in deed the National Assembly under my leadership would continue to support sports through enabling laws and adequate appropriations to harness all the hidden talents in the country.

    “Once again, I congratulate Ademola Lookman, Chiamaka Nnadozie, and the Super Falcons on their remarkable achievements.”

  • BREAKING: Super Falcons win national team of the year at CAF awards

    BREAKING: Super Falcons win national team of the year at CAF awards

    The Nigerian national women’s football team, the Super Falcons, has been named the National Team of the Year at the CAF Awards held in Morocco.

    Ibrahim Musa Gusau, who accepted the award on behalf of the team, expressed gratitude to the organizers and urged for increased support for women’s football.

    Read Also: Dikko counts blessings of NSC parley with Tinubu

    He said: “We are grateful for this award again this year, i was here last year to receive this same award, which is to show the development and resilience of Nigerian football.”

    He further appreciated the efforts of the First Lady, Mrs Oluremi Tinubu for her continuous support to the developments of women football in Nigeria.

    “I also want to use this moment to appreciate our first lady back home for her continuous support to the development of women football in Nigeria” He said. 

  • Super Falcons end 2024 No 1 in Africa

    Super Falcons end 2024 No 1 in Africa

    The Super Falcons have ended 2024 as the top team in Africa.

    According to the latest FIFA rankings released yesterday, the nine-time African champions are the 36th best team in the world, which also makes them No 1 in Africa.

    Reigning WAFCON champions South Africa are 53rd in the world, Morocco 61st, Zambia 62nd, Ghana 66th, Cameroon 68th and Cote d’Ivoire 71st.

    Read Also: NFF holds match commissioners’ seminar in Asaba

    The Super Falcons are in the running for the women’s National Team of the Year at the CAF Awards ceremony Monday night in Marrakech, Morocco.

    They will be one of the favourites to win the 2025 WAFCON in Morocco in July.

    They are drawn against Algeria, Tunisia and Botswana in the first round of the 12-team championship.