We didn't prepare well - Nigeria Super Falcons coach Waldrum explains disastrous Paris 2024 Olympics

Super Falcons coach Randy Waldrum explains Paris 2024 journey. (Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok/X and Imago)

We didn't prepare well - Nigeria Super Falcons coach Waldrum explains disastrous Paris 2024 Olympics

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 10:19 - 02.08.2024

Nigeria's Super Falcons coach Randy Waldrum has offered insights on the failed Paris 2024 Olympics outing.

Nigeria Women's National Football Team head coach Randy Waldrum has blamed the lack of proper preparation time for the Super Falcons' dismal performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

The Super Falcons crashed out of the tournament after suffering three consecutive defeats, the final blow being a 3-1 loss against Japan in their last group stage match.

Super Falcons coach speaks on Paris 2024 exit

The American coach, who promised a better display heading into the game against Japan, revealed that the Super Falcons missed the last training window before the Olympics, which cost them 10 days of crucial preparation.

"We prepared for them (all three opponents) based on the fact that we haven't had a lot of time," Waldrum said according to a post by OgaNlamedia via ESPN.

Super Falcons players in a huddle at the Olympic Games in Paris | X
Super Falcons players in a huddle at the Olympic Games in Paris | X

"We missed the last window before the Olympics, and so we missed 10 days of good training before the Olympics," Waldrum explained, acknowledging the challenges the team faced in the build-up to the tournament.

With three defeats and only one goal scored, the Super Falcons fell well short of expectations, leaving their supporters deeply disappointed. 

Super Falcons boss Randy Waldrum has work to do at the Paris 2024 Olympics. | Imago
Super Falcons boss Randy Waldrum says his team were not prepared for Paris 2024 Olympics. | Imago

This was the team's first appearance at the Olympics in 16 years, having last participated in the 2008 edition.

Waldrum's admission of the lack of preparation time highlights the need for better planning and investment in the Nigerian women's national team program. 

Super Falcons will fly back home to Nigeria after three defeats in three games.
Super Falcons will fly back home to Nigeria after three defeats in three games.

The premature exit has raised questions about the future direction of the Super Falcons and the overall development of women's football in the country.

In a related development, Japan's head coach, Futoshi Ikeda, expressed relief after his team's victory over the Super Falcons. 

Jennifer Echegini ensured Nigeria exited Paris 2024 with a goal. (Photo Credit: Echegini/IG)

The Asian side finished top of the group with six points, securing a spot in the quarterfinals.

"We are relieved that we were able to win our last group match and advance to the quarterfinals," Ikeda said, praising his players' efforts in navigating the "Group of Death."

Japan will continue their journey in Paris 2024 after thrashing Nigeria. (Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok/X)

As the Super Falcons return home, the focus will shift to the lessons learned and the necessary steps to ensure a stronger showing in future international competitions. 

The team's performance in Paris has underscored the importance of proper preparation and the need for sustained investment in the development of women's football in Nigeria.

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