The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shaibu, has urged the Super Falcons to quickly put their disappointing opening defeat to Malawi behind them and remain focused on the bigger objective of reclaiming the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title.

Shaibu described the loss as a temporary setback rather than a reflection of the quality of the nine-time African champions, insisting that the team possesses the experience, talent and mental strength required to bounce back in the tournament. Blueprint reports

In a statement issued on Thursday by his Special Assistant on Media, Ben Ogbemudia, the former Edo State deputy governor encouraged the players not to allow the defeat to affect their confidence as they prepare for their remaining Group C fixtures.

According to him, football remains an unpredictable game in which even the greatest teams suffer setbacks, adding that champions are ultimately defined by how they respond to adversity.

“The task ahead is bigger than yesterday’s defeat,” Shaibu said.

He urged the players and the technical crew led by Justine Madugu to remain united, disciplined and fully committed to the mission of restoring Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s football.

*Confidence in team’s ability

Shaibu expressed confidence that the Super Falcons have all the qualities required to recover from the setback and remain genuine contenders for the continental title despite the disappointing start.

He noted that the squad is packed with experienced internationals and emerging stars who have consistently demonstrated their ability to compete at the highest level.

The NIS boss said the players must now channel the disappointment of the Malawi defeat into renewed determination, adding that every remaining match should be approached like a final.

According to him, the team’s character and resilience will now be tested, stressing that overcoming difficult moments has always been part of the Super Falcons’ rich history.

*Tinubu backing Falcons

Shaibu also disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains fully behind the team and is looking forward to welcoming the players home with the WAFCON trophy.

He said the President has continued to demonstrate unwavering support for Nigerian sports and believes the Super Falcons have what it takes to overcome the early setback and finish the tournament on a high.

According to him, the Federal Government’s commitment to sports development has continued to motivate Nigerian athletes across different competitions, with the Super Falcons expected to justify the confidence reposed in them.

*Millions of Nigerians behind team

The NIS Director General reminded the players that millions of Nigerians remain solidly behind them despite the defeat.

He said football supporters across the country continue to pray for the team’s success and are hopeful that the players will respond positively in their remaining fixtures.

Shaibu urged the players to draw inspiration from the overwhelming support they enjoy both at home and in the diaspora, stressing that one defeat should not erase years of excellence and dominance on the African continent.

He added that the Super Falcons represent much more than a football team, describing them as ambassadors of national unity, resilience and hope.

“They carry the aspirations of millions of Nigerians every time they step onto the pitch,” he said.

*Difficult start to title defence

Nigeria’s title defence suffered an unexpected setback after a dramatic 3-2 defeat to tournament debutants Malawi in their opening Group C encounter.

Following a goalless first half, Temwa Chawinga broke the deadlock in the 73rd minute before her sister, Tabitha Chawinga, doubled Malawi’s advantage six minutes later.

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade reduced the deficit from the penalty spot in the 90th minute, but Temwa struck again in stoppage time to restore Malawi’s two-goal cushion before Uchenna Kanu netted a late consolation for Nigeria.

The result has left the Super Falcons under pressure heading into their remaining group matches as they seek qualification for the knockout stages.

*Crucial Zambia showdown

Attention has now shifted to Saturday’s crucial Group C clash against Zambia in Rabat, a fixture widely regarded as decisive for Nigeria’s hopes of remaining in contention for a record-extending 11th WAFCON title.

Victory over Zambia would revive the Super Falcons’ campaign and significantly improve their chances of reaching the quarter-finals, while another defeat could leave the defending champions facing an early exit from the competition.

Head coach Justine Madugu is expected to make tactical adjustments following the Malawi defeat as Nigeria seeks a swift response against one of Africa’s strongest women’s teams.

*Call for unity and belief

Shaibu concluded by urging Nigerians to continue supporting the team throughout the competition instead of dwelling on the opening defeat.

He said criticism should be constructive and capable of inspiring the players rather than diminishing their confidence.

According to him, the Super Falcons have repeatedly shown over the years that they possess the resilience to overcome adversity, expressing optimism that they would rediscover their winning form and fight their way back into title contention.

He maintained that with unity, discipline and determination, the team can still achieve its objective of bringing the WAFCON trophy back to Nigeria.