General Secretary of the Nigeria Football Federation, Mohammed Sanusi, has defended the federation against criticism over the Super Falcons’ lack of international matches, insisting that the NFF has been making efforts to secure friendlies for the team.
Responding to growing concerns surrounding the women’s national team’s preparations, Sanusi revealed that several planned matches collapsed after opposing countries withdrew at the last minute.
“Teams keep pulling out,” he said.
According to the NFF official, the federation had already lined up friendly fixtures, only for some nations to cancel unexpectedly.
“It disrupted our plans,” he implied.
Sanusi stressed that the lack of games is not due to negligence from the federation.
“We have been doing our part,” he noted.
He also confirmed that the Super Falcons will participate in the upcoming Unity Cup, just like the men’s national team.
“The team will be involved,” he added.
Beyond the Unity Cup, Sanusi revealed that another friendly against Jamaica women’s national football team is scheduled to take place in Nigeria before the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
“We still have preparations lined up,” he stressed.
For the federation, ensuring the team remains active ahead of major tournaments remains a key priority despite the scheduling difficulties.
“We want the team ready,” he said.
The comments come amid criticism from former players and stakeholders over the Super Falcons’ preparation standards.
For Sanusi, the message is clear.
The federation is trying.
Opponents are withdrawing.
And preparations are still ongoing.
Because organizing international football friendlies is not always as straightforward as it appears.
