The Super Falcons’ inactivity during the March/April international window is a major setback in their 2024 WAFCON preparations, particularly with the tournament just four months away.
This is the second consecutive window Nigeria has failed to utilize in 2025, following their absence in February.
The last time the 11-time African champions played was in November 2024, when they lost 2-1 to France in a friendly. Before that, they faced Algeria in a two-legged tie in October 2024.
With the 2024 WAFCON draw completed in November, where Nigeria was placed in Group B alongside Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana, this period should ideally be used to fine-tune tactics, assess new players, and build chemistry.
However, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has provided no explanation for the lack of action during this crucial window.
Concerns Over Lack of Preparation
NFF President Ibrahim Gusau had earlier promised adequate preparations for the Falcons to reclaim their African crown. In December 2024, he said:
“We are in the process of organizing more friendly games for the team, to properly blend the old and new players into a formidable squad that will conquer Africa in style.”
However, no friendly matches have materialized so far in 2025, raising concerns among fans and stakeholders.
While the Super Falcons remain Africa’s top-ranked team (36th globally), their lack of game time could affect their sharpness and cohesion before WAFCON in July.
Players Acknowledge the Importance of Preparation
Key players like Asisat Oshoala (Bay FC) and Gift Monday (Washington Spirit) have emphasized the need for proper preparation:
Oshoala (January 2025, X Space):
“The mentality is different now, everyone wants to win. We just have to keep playing top games, and WAFCON will be a good outing for us.”
Monday (Recent Interview):
“It’s not about the mind alone; it’s about preparation. With the right preparation, we will be good to reclaim our crown.”
Nigeria’s Recent WAFCON Struggles
Since winning their last WAFCON title in 2018, Nigeria has faced challenges:
2022 WAFCON (Morocco): Finished 4th, losing to South Africa (group stage) and Zambia (third-place match).
2023 Women’s World Cup: Impressed by reaching the Round of 16 but needed strong pre-tournament preparation.
Final International Window Before WAFCON
The last FIFA break before WAFCON is from May 26 to June 3, 2025—just one month before the tournament.
If Nigeria fails to schedule games then, they could enter WAFCON without a single match in 2025, a scenario that could hurt their title ambitions.
With rivals like South Africa, Morocco, and Zambia actively preparing, the Super Falcons risk falling behind, despite boasting a squad rich in talent and experience.
