Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, has challenged the Super Falcons to ensure Nigeria qualifies for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, insisting there can be no excuses for missing the tournament.
Olopade made the remarks as preparations gather pace for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, a competition that will also serve as the qualification pathway for African teams to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
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The nine-time African champions head into the tournament as one of the favourites, with expectations high following the disappointment of the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“There can be no excuse for Nigeria not to qualify for the Women’s World Cup. After the disappointment of the men’s team missing out, we must ensure the Super Falcons are in Brazil,” Olopade said.
The NSC boss stressed the importance of giving the Super Falcons every necessary support before the tournament, including quality preparations, proper logistics and a conducive environment that will allow the team to compete at its highest level.
Nigeria remains the most successful nation in the history of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, having won a record nine continental titles, while the Super Falcons have qualified for every edition of the FIFA Women’s World Cup since the competition began in 1991.
Olopade expressed confidence in the quality of the current squad but emphasised that adequate preparation will be crucial if Nigeria is to successfully defend its continental status and secure another appearance on football’s biggest stage.
The Super Falcons are expected to continue their preparations ahead of the start of the 2026 WAFCON, with the tournament set to determine Africa’s representatives at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
