“Accept reality” – Ex-Nigeria star points out two things Super Falcons need after Paris Olympics exit

Following the Super Falcons’ early exit from the Paris Olympics women’s football tournament, former Nigerian international Friday Ekpo has suggested a path forward for the team, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Super Falcons failed to secure a single victory in the group stage, suffering defeats against Brazil, Spain, and Japan.

The Randy Waldrum-tutored team managed only one goal, a commendable effort by Jennifer Echegini, while conceding five goals across the three matches.

The Super Falcons’ overall record at the Olympics remains bleak, with just one win and eleven losses in their four tournament appearances.

Reflecting on this outcome, Ekpo emphasised the need for the team to regroup and address two key areas.

He highlighted the importance of integrating new and younger players into the squad, alongside thorough preparations for major competitions.

Ekpo also stressed the importance of focusing on future tournaments, particularly the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco next year.

“After this tournament, I think the team needs better preparation and the introduction of young players in the Super Falcons,” Ekpo told Complete Sports.

“We should accept the reality that the team is out of the Olympic Games and focus on helping them have a better showing at the 2025 WAFCON.”

Despite their setbacks, the Super Falcons are renowned for their success in the African Continental championships, having won the title eleven times.

However, their last victory came in 2018, with South Africa currently holding the championship title after defeating Morocco in the final two years ago.