Following the Super Falcons’ departure from the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, a fresh conflict is brewing between the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) and the team. However, this time, the International Federation of Professional Footballers (FIFPRO) is stepping in to represent the Super Falcons.

The Super Falcons’ World Cup journey came to an end in the round of 16 with a penalty shootout loss to England on Monday morning. Despite the disappointment, the former African champions displayed an impressive performance, participating in four matches without a loss in regular time. Notably, they secured three clean sheets, a feat unprecedented in a single World Cup by an African team.

LONG-STANDING FEUD BETWEEN SUPER FALCONS AND NFF

Yet, the team’s on-field prowess has been overshadowed by an ongoing bonus payment dispute with the NFF. Even before their World Cup campaign in Australia and New Zealand, the Super Falcons were entangled in a contentious bonus disagreement with the Nigerian Football Federation.

Just to make Nigerians understand how infuriating this is, the money owed is $500 (at $100 per player x 5 days) X 23 players = $11,500. Why would @thenff not promptly settle such a meagre debt?

— Osasu Obayiuwana (@osasuo) August 8, 2023

The situation escalated when head coach Randy Waldrum revealed he had not received several months’ worth of salary, leading to sharp criticism from the NFF’s Communications Director, Ademola Olajire. Discontent was amplified by player Ify Onumonu, who voiced concerns about inadequate preparations by the NFF, including shared beds for the team members.

Adding complexity, a debate arose over the disbursement of match bonuses for the World Cup. The dispute centered on whether FIFA should directly compensate the Nigerian players or funnel the payments through the NFF. Delays in payments from the NFF have historically been a recurring issue, causing further frustration.

FIFPRO’S INTERVENTION

FIFPRO, the global union representing professional football players. In an official statement issued on Tuesday, the organization pledged to engage with the NFF on behalf of the Super Falcons to ensure the team’s rightful entitlements.

#FIFPRO statement on behalf of Nigeria women's national team: pic.twitter.com/90zipIUWK0

— FIFPRO (@FIFPRO) August 8, 2023

While acknowledging the team’s aspiration to maintain focus on their performance without external disruptions, it emphasizes that the moment has arrived for the NFF to fulfill its responsibilities.

Renowned as Africa’s most triumphant female team, the Super Falcons boast an impressive record of eleven Nation’s Cup titles and an unwavering presence at every installment of the Women’s World Cup.