Sanusi issues warning to erring national teams’ players, coaches

THE Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, has restated the Federation’s stance not to tolerate indiscipline any longer by any player or coach of the national teams , as any established case will not go unpunished.

Sanusi stated this clearly when receiving the delegation of the Senior Women National Team, Super Falcons, that arrived in Abuja yesterday, following early elimination from the 7th FIFA World Cup finals in Canada.

“The NFF, like other Nigerians, is not happy that you could not make it beyond the group stage of the competition. Sincerely speaking, the NFF believed Canada 2015 was the opportunity for you to show how much progress has been made in women’s football in Nigeria,” said Sanusi.

The NFF scribe recalled that the Under-20 girls have reached the final of their World Cup twice in the past three competitions (2010 and 2014), and also reached the semi final in the other tournament (2012). “We believed Canada 2015 was where you senior girls would show the stuff you are made up.

“Let me assure you that we are not discouraged. The NFF will continue to provide enabling environment for all National Teams, including the Falcons, to excel at international fronts, through adequate preparation and robust welfare packages.

“However, it is pertinent that I point out without any ambiguity that the NFF will no longer tolerate any act of indiscipline or misconduct on the part of any player or coach of any of the National Teams. That message is important for you to go home with.”

The Super Falcons and their technical and backroom staff will have the opportunity of spending about two weeks at home, before resuming camp for next month’s 2016 Olympics qualifying fixture against Equatorial Guinea.