Super Falcons Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has called on Nigerians to continue supporting the team despite their disappointing defeat to South Africa, which ended their hopes of qualifying for the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Speaking after the loss, Nnadozie acknowledged the growing competitiveness of women’s football in Africa, noting that teams can no longer be considered pushovers.

“Before now, it was already so visible that the other teams are coming into the tournament not as pushovers. We also did not underrate any team, and what has happened was not really a surprise,” Nnadozie said.

She explained that every team now approaches matches against Nigeria with a strong determination to win, particularly because of the country’s impressive history and consistent success in African women’s football.

“Every team definitely will come into the tournament with the mindset of defeating Nigeria because they all want to qualify. We have been winning consecutively, but now it is a heartbreaking loss, and our supporters can bear with us.”

Despite the disappointment, the Super Falcons goalkeeper expressed her appreciation to the Nigerian fans who have stood firmly behind the team throughout their journey.

“To all the good Nigerians who have been supporting us from day one, we really appreciate you. You have indeed tried. Please, don’t give up on us. Don’t give up on us,” she appealed.

Nnadozie also urged supporters to remain hopeful, stressing that the team still has another opportunity to achieve success through the Olympic qualifiers.

“The future is still bright. We have the Olympics qualifiers. We didn’t make it to the World Cup, but we will give our best for the Olympics,” she added.

The World Cup dream is now over, but the Super Falcons will have to regroup, learn from the disappointment and turn their attention to the next challenge, with Nnadozie confident that the team can bounce back stronger.