They played fine ‘Soccer’ — Tinubu to host Super Falcons

Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, have announced plans to host a celebratory event for the Super Falcons of Nigeria after their impressive showing at the 2023 Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

The team, led by head coach Randy Waldrum, captured the nation’s hearts despite their exit in the round of 16 after a closely contested match against the Lionesses of England.

On Monday, August 7, the Super Falcons engaged in a gripping showdown with the Lionesses during the round of 16 clash.

The match, which saw the two teams locked in a stalemate even after 120 minutes of play, ultimately relied on chance in a nail-biting penalty shootout.

During the shootout, England’s Georgia Stanway faltered with her spot-kick, while two Nigerian players, Desire Oparanozie and Michelle Alozie, saw their attempts thwarted.

The Lionesses managed to secure victory with a 4-2 score line in the shootout, thus advancing to the quarter-finals.

Despite their exit from the tournament, the Super Falcons’ tenacious spirit and exceptional performance on the global stage have garnered commendation from the fans of the game and of the team to push England to the end.

President Tinubu, expressing his appreciation on his verified Twitter account, lauded the team’s effort and resilience:

“I must commend the effort by our Super Falcons @NGSuper_Falcons at the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Your brilliant performance did not go unnoticed despite the final outcome. You made Nigeria proud on the global stage!”

Echoing the President’s sentiment, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu also conveyed her pride in the team’s performance.

She highlighted that the Nigerian team gave the formidable Lionesses a fierce competition, and praised their determined efforts:

“I want to say that they played very well and we are proud of them.

“We gave England a run for their money and so we will be waiting to receive them. The match wasn’t easy for England. It was like a bonus to them and they really played fine soccer.”