Super Falcons coach Randy Waldrum expressed delight after impressively responding to his critics, stating, “I’m proud of the performances and believe.”
However, he also admitted disappointment over his team’s failure to defeat the Republic of Ireland, despite being happy with their overall achievements as underdogs.
- Nigeria was placed in the ‘Group of Death.’
- Collected five points during the group stage.
- Super Falcons advance to the Round of 16.
Nigeria defied expectations and secured a place in the Round of 16 by finishing second in Group B of the Women’s World Cup.
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They kicked off with a goalless draw against Canada, followed by a thrilling 3-2 victory over eventual pool leaders Australia, and then secured a crucial point in a 0-0 draw against the Republic of Ireland.
Waldrum shared his journey with the team, recalling the challenges they faced when they started two years ago and how he urged the players to keep working hard.
He expressed pride in their performances and their ability to qualify from the group, despite doubts from many about their chances.
Although Waldrum had hoped for a win against Ireland, he emphasized that the primary objective of qualifying for the knockout stage was achieved, which he considers sufficient.
Having made it out of Group B, the Super Falcons are now looking forward to facing the winners of Group D in the Round of 16.
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The current leaders of Group D are England with six points, followed by Denmark and China, each with three points.
The Super Falcons have participated in nine Women’s World Cups but have yet to surpass their best performance, reaching the quarter-finals in the 1999 edition.
Now, all attention is on the final matches of Group D as the Super Falcons await their next opponent.
