Buhari congratulates Super Falcons following their record-breaking ninth African Womens Cup of Nations title

PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated the Super Falcons of Nigeria following their victory over the Banyana Banyana of South Africa in the final of the 11th Africa Women Cup of Nations (Awcon) that ended yesterday.

In the tight game that took place in the Ghanaian capital Accra, the Falcons beat the South Africans 4-3 on penalties after the match ended in a 0-0 draw following 120 minutes of play. With this victory, the Falcons have now on nine of the 11 Awcon finals and will proceed top represent Africa at the Fifa Womens World Cup next year alongside South Africa and third placed Cameroon.

Nigeria missed the chance the win the match during regular time after midfielder Asisat Oshoala had missed a penalty in the 56th minute. Despite the setback, the team went on to secure victory after the match ended 0-0 following extra time.

In a congratulatory message, President Buhari expressed delight at the discipline and commitment exhibited by the team despite the stiff resistance of their South African counterparts. While noting that the Super Falcons had earlier qualified to represent Africa at the World Cup in France next year, President Buhari described winning the Awcon for the third consecutive time as the icing on the cake.

He saluted the country’s female football ambassadors for doing their fatherland proud and showing clear dominance on the African continent. President Buhari also urged them to approach the France 2019 competition with clear focus and determination to excel on the global stage.

In addition, President Buhari also commended the team’s coaching crew, the Nigerian Football Federation, the Nigerian Supporters Club and all football-loving citizens for adequately preparing and supporting the players. He enjoined all stakeholders not to relent in rallying round the country’s football representatives going forward.