Shaibu Urges Super Falcons to Focus on World Cup Qualifiers

H. E. Comrade Philip Shaibu, the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), has encouraged the Super Falcons of Nigeria to maintain hope despite their recent defeat and exit from the Nations Cup.

He urged the team to concentrate on the upcoming World Cup qualification match against the South Africa women's national team scheduled for Thursday, August 13, 2026. Shaibu's remarks followed the Super Falcons' loss to the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon, which resulted in Cameroon advancing to the semi-finals.

He reminded the Super Falcons of their status as the most successful women's team in Africa, having won the African title a record 10 times, and stated that this legacy should motivate them. Shaibu also called on the team's coaches and technical crew to remain positive and emphasized the importance of the "never die Nigerian spirit" in their next match.

He urged Nigerians to support the team through prayers rather than criticism as they pursue a World Cup ticket.