Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shaibu, has assured the Super Falcons of the unwavering support of millions of Nigerians despite their recent setback in the ongoing tournament.

 

The NIS boss urged the players to put their disappointing defeat behind them and focus on the bigger task ahead, describing the loss as a temporary setback that should inspire the team to fight harder in their remaining matches.

 

Shaibu, disclosed this while 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, adding that, “The task ahead is bigger than yesterday’s defeat.”

 

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.

 

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.

 

In a statement issued by the Special Assistant on Media to the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports, Ben Ogbemudia, the NIS expressed optimism that the players would use the disappointment of defeat as motivation to produce stronger performances, restore confidence and reward the faith of Nigerians by returning home with the coveted trophy.