Randy Waldrum who guided the Super Falcons to the Round of 16 in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, has reportedly signed a contract extension to continue as the head coach of the team.
The details of the contract extension were not immediately available, and it is noted that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is yet to sign their part of the agreement.
Waldrum’s initial contract with the NFF expired in October of the previous year. The delay in finalizing the contract extension has raised questions, particularly as the Super Falcons have crucial 2024 Olympic Games qualifiers scheduled for next month. The team is set to face Cameroon in the third round of Olympic Games qualifying between February 19 and 28, following their 5-1 aggregate victory over Ethiopia in the second round.
Sports journalist Osasu Obayiuwana expressed concern about the delay, stating, “Is there any reason the NFF have not signed their own part of the deal? They have a decisive Paris 2024 Olympics qualifier against Cameroon in February. The Falcons have not played in the Olympics since 2008.”
The Super Falcons are eager to make a comeback to the Olympics after missing out on the London 2012, Rio 2016, and Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. The extension of Waldrum’s contract comes after the team’s impressive performance in the 2023 Women’s World Cup, where they reached the Round of 16, showcasing the potential for further success under his guidance.