Waldrum laments poor investment in Super Falcons, reveals desire for contract renewal

Randy Waldrum, head coach of Nigeria’s Super Falcons, has lamented the poor investment in the team following their disappointing exit from the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Nigeria’s fourth Olympic appearance, and first in 16 years, ended with a group stage exit as the nine-time African champions lost all three matches in Group C of the women’s football tournament in Paris.

Despite the Falcons’ failure, Waldrum insisted the team is extremely talented and blessed with a mix of experienced and talented young players.

“Our players are extremely talented,” the American told ESPN. “That’s always been the history of Nigeria; it has extremely talented players. And I think this one could be a special group. We’ve shown our quality against some of the best teams in the world.”

However, Waldrum believes the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Nigerian government aren’t investing enough in the team. “I’m excited about the young players but I really do like the core of our team,” he added.

“If we invest in this team, as a federation and a country, this team would have a chance to be one of the best in the world.”

Currently holding double roles as the Falcons’ coach and the coach of the University of Pittsburgh women’s soccer team, Waldrum revealed his struggles to implement his experiences from the U.S. into the Nigerian setup.

“One of the things I really hoped to bring to Nigeria was our organizational and preparation methods, but we still battle some of the same issues.

“I don’t want to revive [resolved issues], but I would say this, and I don’t mean it in a bad way towards the Federation: I do think that we can do with changes.

“It may come down to finances and that part I’m not involved with because I don’t know the financial situation of the NFF, and how it works with the government.”

Despite these challenges, the 67-year-old expressed his desire to continue leading the Falcons beyond his current contract.

“I would like to stay on,” he said. “I love the team. I love the direction that we’re headed. After a rough start, I think we’re headed in a good direction.

“I hope they at least appreciate the fact that we had the showing that we did at the World Cup and that we have qualified them for the Olympics. I’m thankful for the belief the NFF has shown in me, and I certainly would entertain staying on beyond.”