The Super Falcons have publicly criticised the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) for failing to arrange friendly matches during the November–December FIFA window, a crucial period for preparation ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, together with Ashleigh Plumptre, Michelle Alozie and Rinsola Babajide, drew attention to the empty schedule on social media, posting:
“Zero Friendlies Confirmed Between November 24th to December 2nd.”
The concerns come as the team prepares for a key tournament with limited match practice. While the Super Falcons have not protested unpaid allowances or bonuses, an investigation by The Athletic NG confirms that they are still owed years of allowances and the $100,000 WAFCON-winning bonuses promised by the Nigerian government.
Babajide. Image Credit: Instagram
The situation mirrors issues recently faced by the Super Eagles, who staged a protest earlier this month over unpaid allowances before their 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff clash against Gabon.
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The senior men’s team later lost to DR Congo, failing to qualify for the World Cup, highlighting the impact of administrative lapses on team performance.
Plumptre. Image Credit: Instagram
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Other African nations, including Ghana, Zambia, Kenya, and South Africa, have already confirmed friendly matches to prepare their squads, giving them a clear advantage. The WAFCON tournament begins on 17 March 2026.
While the Falcons have shown resilience in the past winning the last WAFCON in Morocco despite only two warm-up matches the lack of friendlies and ongoing unpaid dues raise questions about their readiness to defend the continental title and compete for FIFA Women’s World Cup qualification.
