Nigeria has participated in every WAFCON since its inception in 1991, maintaining a perfect record.
Following the Super Falcons' disappointing exit from the Paris Olympics women's football tournament, former Nigerian international Friday Ekpo has urged the team to set their sights on the 2024 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
Pulse Sports reported that Nigeria's Olympic campaign ended without a single victory, marked by losses against Brazil, Spain, and Japan in their final group stage match.
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Reacting to the disappointment, Ekpo advised the team to move forward from the Olympics.
"After this tournament, I think the team needs better preparation and introduction of young players in the Super Falcons," he told Complete Sports.
20:10 - 31.07.2024
Paris 2024: Nigeria eliminated despite spirited fight to stay in Olympic race
Spain and Japan progressed automatically after the world champions beat Brazil 2-0 in the other group fixture.
Ekpo emphasised the importance of refocusing on the future, "We should accept the reality that the team is out of the Olympic Games and focus on helping them have a better showing at the 2025 WAFCON," he continued.
Despite the setback, Ekpo offered words of encouragement to the players, "The players must come home with their heads held high," he concluded.
Super Falcons secure spot at 2024 WAFCON
Meanwhile, the Super Falcons have qualified for the 2024 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) as the eleven-time African champions secured their spot following a dominant 7-1 aggregate victory over Cape Verde in the final round of qualifiers.
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The Super Falcons suffered a 3-1 defeat to Japan which meant they were dumped out of the Olympics without securing a point. We evaluate three of the reasons for their failed outing.
The Falcons clinched the qualification with a 2-1 win in the second leg despite falling behind early. Esther Okoronkwo and Rasheedat Ajibade scored crucial goals to secure the victory. This win adds to their impressive 5-0 victory in the first leg.
Nigeria have maintained its perfect record of participating in every WAFCON since its inception in 1991.
The 2024 Women's Africa Cup of Nations is scheduled to be hosted by Morocco.