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In 1999, the Super Falcons made its best-ever outing at the FIFA Women's World Cup, going past the group stages to make the quarter-finals of the competition.
Super Falcons coach Randy Waldrum has made a bold claim ahead of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, adding that he will need all his players in a fit condition before the tournament starts July 20.
Having made it to the semi-final of last year's Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), Nigeria picked a ticket to participate in the ninth edition of the Women's World Cup, alongside 31 other teams.
The Super Falcons are one of eight teams to have qualified for all editions of the Women's World Cup, alongside the United States, Germany, Norway, Sweden, Brazil and Japan.
Class of 2023 can emulate Class of 1999 - Waldrum
In 1999, Nigeria made its best-ever outing at the FIFA Women's World Cup, going past the group stages to make the quarter-finals of the competition, under then-coach Florence Omagbemi.
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Despite a heavy 7-1 group stage defeat to hosts - and eventual champions - the United States, Nigeria finished second in Group A after wins over North Korea and Denmark to progress past the first round for the first time on three attempts. A golden goal by Brazil in the quarter-final, however, meant Nigeria had to bow out of the competition.
Speaking in a chat with thenff.com, Waldrum stated that the present Super Falcons were capable of emulating the Super Falcons class of 1999.
“I am confident and realistic about this," the American said, "We have an abundance of talents in the squad and I am convinced they can go that far.
"This particular team is very talented and has the same ability to go far in the tournament, just like the Class of 1999. To be able to achieve this and even more, we need to have all players in fit condition, healthy and most importantly have enough time together.
"If we have enough time together, we have the ability to be successful at the World Cup,” Waldrum concluded.
Super Falcons to start Women's World Cup campaign on July 21
Nigeria have been drawn alongside Olympic champions Canada, co-hosts Australia and debutants Republic of Ireland in Group B.
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The Super Falcons will launch their campaign on July 21 when they take on Canada at the Melbourne Rectangular Stadium. Their other group games will see them play Australia on July 27 at Lang Park in Brisbane, before taking on the Republic of Ireland at the same venue on July 31.
The final will take place in Sydney on August 20.
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