Reactions As Arsenal Legend Ian Wright Tells NFF to Pay Super Falcons After Win Over Australia

Reactions As Arsenal Legend Ian Wright Tells NFF to Pay Super Falcons After Win Over Australia

Babajide Orevba
updated at July 28, 2023 at 9:57 AM
  • The Super Falcons are one step away from the next round of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup
  • Nigeria defeated co-host nation Australia 3-2 in a highly-intense Group B showdown
  • After the hard-fought win, Arsenal legend Ian Wright called out the NFF to pay the ladies

Former England international, Ian Wright has called out the Nigeria Football Federation to pay the Super Falcons after their hard-fought win over Australia.

Randy Waldrum’s ladies had to come from behind to defeat the co-host nation 3-2 in a highly-intense Group B fixture.

The Super Falcons now have four points from two matches to top their group, and a draw in their last game against the Republic of Ireland will ensure their qualification to the next round.

Super Falcons, Nigeria, Australia and New Zealand, FIFA Women's World Cup
Super Falcons celebrate their win over Australia. Photo: Justin Setterfield
Source: Getty Images

But days before the tournament, the girls had threatened to boycott their opening game against Canada over unpaid wages and bonuses, Punch reports.

The coach of the side, Randy Waldrum, alleged that every participating nation received $960,000 from FIFA for the preparation for the tournament.

The American tactician demanded accountability as he lamented that the lack of funds hindered the team’s preparation.

The 66-year-old also stated that he was owed salaries running up to 14 months before he was paid for seven months a few weeks ago. He said that some players were being owed up to two years of bonuses and allowances.

And after their win over Australia, Arsenal legend Ian Wright wrote:

“Pay them, NFF.”

Fans have stormed the reply section to express embarrassment over the situation.

One said:

“International dragging. NFF, have some shame.”

Another added:

“Corruption in every sector. It’s so embarrassing.”

A fan wrote:

“Omoh. This one is now an international shame. Pay them now, NFF.”

Oshoala makes history

Sports Brief earlier reported that Asisat Oshoala is a history maker and chose a brilliant moment to write her name in gold as a Nigerian and on the African continent with a winning goal against co-hosts Australia.

The Super Falcons needed a result against the Matildas to boost their chances of progression after drawing their first game against Canada, and they proved why they are African giants.

Her goal off the bench means she is now the first Nigerian to score in three editions of the FIFA Women's World Cup.

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Babajide Orevba photo
Babajide Orevba
Babajide Orevba is a CAF accredited Nigerian journalist and HOD of the Local Desk with over 10 years of experience in media landscape.He studied NCE Political Science/Social Studies, AOCOED.
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