Randy Waldrum, the head coach of the Super Falcons, praised his team’s valiant effort in Monday night’s loss to the Atlas Lionesses of Morocco.
KemiFilani reports that Halimat Ayinde and Rasheedat Ajibade were both dismissed from the game for making poor tackles, so the nine-time champions played the majority of the game with just nine players.
Despite having a larger population, the host nation was unable to penetrate the Super Falcons defence; instead, substitute Monday Gift came dangerously close to giving Nigeria the victory late in extra time.
Ultimately, Morocco won 5-4 in the penalty shootouts.
“We wanted to win the game, not just the World Cup ticket. Our substitutions were spot on and we can’t ask for more from the players, they gave their best,” Waldrum said following the game.
The American strategist also discussed his opinions of the game’s officials.
“We (Coaches) can’t comment on officiating, we will get into trouble.
“We were in control of the game until after the first red card, then the second red card, I will put it this way,” he said.
