Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade has called for greater accountability after Nigeria lost 2-1 to South Africa in their 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup playoff clash in Casablanca, Bold Sports reports.
The defeat ended Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the tournament and brought an historic end to their record of appearing at every Women’s World Cup since 1991. Ajibade remains one of the team’s key players. She scored in Nigeria’s 3-2 defeat to Malawi at the 2026 WAFCON.
Ajibade calls for greater responsibility
Speaking after the loss, Ajibade urged the Super Falcons to remain focused. She admitted that the team must raise its standards individually and collectively.
”Just gratitude to be honest. we need to be grateful. And also, maybe Let’s not get too relaxed. Everybody is fully tightened up now. We are not invisible, so anybody’s beatable. And we just need to prepare more and get better and demand more of ourselves individually and collectively.” she told Ademola victor tv on x.
Her comments came after a painful night for Nigeria in Casablanca. The Super Falcons had chances but failed to convert them.
South Africa took control through Thembi Kgatlana. Refiloe Jane later doubled the lead after her effort took a deflection.
Nigeria fight back but fall short
Ucheibe eventually gave Nigeria hope from the penalty spot. The midfielder converted after VAR awarded a penalty for a handball involving Jane.
South Africa were reduced to 10 players after Jane received a second yellow card. Nigeria then pushed forward in search of an equaliser.
Folashade Ijamilusi struck the crossbar during stoppage time. Kaylin Swart also produced a late save to deny Michelle Alozie.
The result means South Africa will join Ghana in the inter-confederation playoffs for the 2027 World Cup. Ghana had earlier defeated Côte d’Ivoire 2-1.
For Nigeria, the defeat represents a major setback. The Super Falcons will now miss the Women’s World Cup for the first time in their history.
Ajibade’s message, however, points toward rebuilding. The captain wants Nigeria to improve, stay alert and demand more from everyone involved.
© Bold Sports Media. All rights reserved. If sharing, kindly credit Bold Sports as the source and include a link to the original post. Unauthorised use is prohibited.
