LAGOS State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has said it was an honour to host three Super Falcons players — Asisat Oshoala, Rasheedat Ajibade and Gift Monday — after the team’s heroics at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The Super Falcons of Nigeria were unbeaten in four matches in open play at the tournament, holding Olympic champions Canada and European champions England and beating co-hosts Australia before getting eliminated on penalties in the round of 16.
The nine-time African champions earned accolades from around the world for their performances and Sanwo-Olu also hailed the heroines for their impressive run in Australia and New Zealand.
The three Super Falcons players, who all played football in Lagos before taking their careers abroad, paid the governor a courtesy call at State House, Marina yesterday and presented him with their national team jerseys.
“Honoured to have received some team members of our remarkable Super Falcons at the Lagos House in Marina earlier today,” Sanwo-Olu tweeted last night.
“Asisat Oshoala who came in the company of Rasheedat Ajibade and Monday Gift, came to pay us a courtesy visit.
“The Super Falcons’ incredible run at the FIFA Women’s World Cup has ignited a new era of enthusiasm for women’s football in Nigeria.
“Their achievements on the field and the unity they brought to our nation are truly remarkable. We will continue to empower and encourage our female
athletes, and also work towards a brighter future for women’s football in Nigeria.
“A big thank you to these amazing ladies for their visit, and for the gifts of the jerseys.”
Oshoala, despite struggling with a knock, scored in the 3-2 victory over Australia, while Ajibade was one of Nigeria’s best players at the World Cup and Gift made a substitute appearance.
The Super Falcons are currently ranked 40th by FIFA but are expected to rise significantly after their World Cup progress, following draws with Canada (No.7) and Ireland (No.22) and victory over Australia (No.10).
The Nigerian side also held England (No.4) to a draw in the round of 16 before losing in a penalty shootout.
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