Shaibu urges Super Falcons to stay focused on bigger mission

Shaibu urges Super Falcons to stay focused on bigger mission

Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shaibu, has urged the Super Falcons to put their disappointing defeat to the Malawian women's national team behind them and concentrate on the bigger task ahead in the tournament.

He described the loss as a temporary setback that should inspire the team to fight harder in their remaining matches.

Shaibu made the appeal while reacting shortly after the match on Tuesday, he therefore encouraged them not to allow one poor result to affect their confidence or determination.

He reminded the nine-time African champions that football is unpredictable and that every successful team experiences difficult moments during its journey to greatness. According to him, champions are defined not by their defeats but by their ability to recover and respond positively.

"The task ahead is bigger than yesterday's defeat," Shaibu said. He called on the players and coaching crew to remain united, disciplined and fully committed to achieving their objective.

He expressed confidence that the Super Falcons possess the quality, experience and winning mentality needed to bounce back and compete strongly for the title.

The NIS boss also disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is eagerly looking forward to welcoming the team back home with the championship trophy. He said the President has continued to demonstrate unwavering support for the Super Falcons and believes they have the talent and resilience to bring honour and pride to Nigeria on the continental stage.

Shaibu further reminded the players that millions of Nigerians are solidly behind them. He noted that football fans, families and supporters across the country are praying for their success and following their progress with great hope. He urged the players to draw strength from the love and encouragement they continue to receive from Nigerians at home and abroad.

He concluded by describing the Super Falcons as more than just a football team, saying they represent the resilience, unity and aspirations of the nation. Shaibu expressed optimism that the players would use the disappointment of defeat as motivation to deliver stronger performances, restore confidence and reward the faith of Nigerians by returning home with the coveted trophy.