Super Falcons captain has urged Nigerians to support the team rather than subject players to online criticism as Nigeria prepares to face South Africa in a crucial Women’s Africa Cup of Nations playoff Thursday night.
The captain said players are already carrying the weight of representing more than 200 million Nigerians and should not have to deal with abusive criticism on social media after giving their best on the field.
She said the team understands the disappointment following the quarterfinal loss to Cameroon but remains determined to make Nigerians proud and keep its 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup hopes alive.
Nigeria and South Africa are meeting after both teams missed out on direct World Cup qualification. Nigeria lost 1-0 to Cameroon, while South Africa fell 2-1 to tournament hosts Morocco.
The winner of Thursday’s match will advance through the playoff route for a chance to qualify for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil, while the loser will be eliminated from contention.
The Super Falcons captain said the team has seen and felt the reaction from Nigerians but is choosing to focus on what it can control.
“Treat people well. Let us be better humans,” she said, urging fans to remember that players also face challenges away from the pitch.
She added that football can serve as a source of unity and healing in Nigeria, saying the team carries the hopes and aspirations of Nigerians whenever it takes the field.
The match is scheduled for 9 p.m. WAT Thursday at Stade Moulay Rachid in Casablanca.
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