THE Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has revealed that the body has begun the process of appointing a new head coach for the Super Falcons to replace Randy Waldrum.
The American led the nine-time African champions to one of their best FIFA Women’s World Cup outings ever as they reached the round of 16 in Australia without losing a single match in open play, despite coming up against Olympic champions Canada, co-hosts Australia and England, the European champions and eventual global runners-up.
However, Waldrum’s relationship with the ruling body became fractured over owed entitlements and he has been eased out despite the impressive performance in Australia in August.
After their board meeting on Sunday night in Uyo, the NFF issued a communique in which they announced the search for new coaches for the women’s national teams, which suggests that Waldrum will be replaced.
“The Board resolved to be thorough and ensure meritocracy in the composition of new coaching crews for the various Women’s National Teams (Super Falcons, Falconets and Flamingos) within the shortest possible time, as the Super Falcons and Falconets have crucial qualifying fixtures for major championships in a matter of weeks,” the communique states, even as it praised Waldrum’s work at the World Cup.
“While commending the Super Falcons for an impressive outing at the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023, in which the team reached the Round of 16 and exited the tournament without losing a match in regulation period, the Board reiterated that all hands must be on deck to ensure that the momentum is maintained and even improved with adequate support and encouragement of women’s football in all ramifications.”
Meanwhile, Waldrum has insisted that his contract has not run out and he has apparently not been officially informed of his sacking.
“I’m seeing reports that I’ve been sacked but my contract doesn’t end until October 31,” the 66-year-old, who also coaches the University of Pittsburgh women’s football team, told The Punch.
Waldrum, who previously coached the Trinidad and Tobago women’s national team, was appointed as Super Falcons head coach in October 2020 and has overseen two tournaments with contrasting fortunes.
He led the team to their worst Women’s Africa Cup of Nations outing in history in 2022 when they finished fourth after losing three matches but turned it around with the brilliant performances at the Women’s World Cup one year after.
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