The Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare, has saluted the spirited display of Nigeria’s Super Falcons after their gallant defeat to Morocco in the second semi finals of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The nine-time African champions bowed out gallantly with pride, losing 4-5 on penalties to hosts Morocco, after playing majority of the game with nine players as midfielder Halimatu Ayinde and striker Rasheedat Ajibade were sent off for dangerous play.
“Your resilience, character, and management of the game must be commended. I salute your doggedness, commitment and fighting spirit,” Dare said.
“For holding the Moroccans in front of over 45,000 capacity crowd you have once again displayed the never say die attitude of a true Nigerian.”
“Even when down to nine players after those red cards, you held your own. You are our champions. Nigeria is proud of you,” Dare added.
“It was a match I followed very keenly and I am so proud you displayed the Nigerian spirit. I am proud of this team, even in defeat.”
In the other semi-final match, Banyana Banyana of South Africa defeated the Copper Queens of Zambia 1-0 to reach the WAFCON final, where they will square up against hosts Morocco.
The Super Falcons of Nigeria will face the She-polopolo of Zambia for a chance to seal third spot in the continental tournament on Friday, July 22nd.
