OMIDIRAN CHARGES FALCONS TO RETAIN CUP OF NATIONS

Abuja, Nigeria – A former Board Member of the Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaja Ayo Omidiran has charged the Super Falcons to go to Cameroon to bring home the Women Africa Cup of Nations trophy.

The proprietor of then renowned Omidiran Babes, currently a ranking Member of the House of Representatives, was at one of the training sessions of the Super Falcons as they were rounding up their preparations before the trip to Cameroon for the 10th Africa Women Cup of Nations finals.

“I have no doubt that the trophy is yours to be taken. We are used to winning this competition and Nigerians expect you to win it this time around again. So, I am expecting you ladies to go to Cameroon and retain the Cup and bring it home.” Omidiran, also a former member of the Organizing Committee for the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup, told the seven –time African champions to be cautious in their preparation in order to avoid unnecessary injuries.

“You should not be too hard on yourselves at training to the extent of copping injuries so close to the championship. I have seen the usual flashes of brilliance and I believe that we are going to do well at the competition,” she stated.

The parliamentarian called on corporate organizations to come to the aid of women football in Nigeria if the game is to grow and make progress. “We need sponsors to come into women football so that we can play many more games and competitions.”

Meanwhile, NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi has implored the Super Falcons of Nigeria to concentrate on their preparations towards the continental finals slated for Cameroon later this month.

Sanusi assured the ladies that all their entitlements would be paid in spite of the financial challenges the NFF is going through, and advised them to listen and learn from the experience of their Coaches. The General Secretary who addressed the Falcons shortly after the friendly game between the team and their U20 women counterparts.

Falconets, said: “I am happy and proud of what I saw today in the game between you and the Falconets. You have a consortium of coaches that are knowledgeable and I believe if you listen to them, you’ll benefit from them.

“The only thing they can do is to coach you but when you go on the pitch you are on your own. Of course, they cannot come and play for you. But listen attentively to their instructions, so that you can benefit. The Federation is fully aware of its indebtedness to you; it is because we are passing through a very turbulent time financially right now. But I want to plead with you not to be distracted and I want to assure you that every kobo that you are owed will be paid.

“The NFF president is happy with you and your resilience and has promised to give you all the support to achieve success in Cameroon.” Rivers Angels’ Chioma Wogu scored in the first half to earn the Super Falcons a 1-0 win over their U20 opponents in a friendly match played at the National Stadium practice pitch Thursday evening.