The Super Falcons Captain Rasheedat Ajibade has addressed Nigerians following the team’s disappointing 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign and their failure to qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
In an emotional message to Nigerian football supporters, Ajibade acknowledged the pain of the setback and admitted that missing the World Cup for the first time is difficult for both her and her teammates to accept.
“This one hurts. There’s no way around that. We didn’t get the result we wanted, and for the first time, we won’t be at the World Cup. I carry that. I take it personally, and I know every member of this team does too,” she wrote.
Despite the disappointment, the Super Falcons captain insisted that the result does not define the team or erase the quality and commitment shown throughout the tournament.
She maintained that the players gave everything in training and during matches, but football does not always reward the level of effort put in.
“This team gave everything. Every training session, every match, every ounce of fight, nothing was held back,” Ajibade stated.
The Captain also appreciated her teammates for their commitment and determination throughout the tournament, while extending her gratitude to the coaching staff and everyone who worked behind the scenes to support the team.
Ajibade reserved special appreciation for the fans who continued to believe in the Super Falcons, apologising that the team could not give them the ending they deserved.
However, she insisted that the setback will not mark the end of the Super Falcons’ journey.
“This isn’t the end of the Super Falcons’ story. We go back to work. We rebuild. We come back stronger, because that’s who we are,” she said.
With attention now turning towards the Olympic qualifiers, Ajibade described the upcoming challenge as an opportunity for redemption and a chance for the team to rebuild the trust of Nigerians.
She concluded by reaffirming her faith and gratitude to God despite the difficult circumstances.
Despite the heartbreak, the Super Falcons remain determined to turn the setback into motivation, regroup as a team, and begin a new chapter with renewed strength and purpose.
