Super Falcons midfielder Christy Ucheibe apologizes for WAFCON exit, emphasizes World Cup qualification remains the target

Nigeria suffered a 1-0 quarter-final defeat, ending their hopes of defending their continental title and securing automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Ucheibe acknowledged that despite their best efforts, it was not enough, stating there is no excuse for the disappointing result. She expressed the team's disappointment at not advancing further and failing to meet the country's expectations.

Despite creating several opportunities, the Super Falcons were thwarted by Cameroon's defense and goalkeeper Michaely Bihina. Ucheibe stressed that Nigeria's World Cup hopes are still alive through a second qualification route. The team will now focus on the CAF play-off against South Africa on Thursday, August 13.

A victory in this match would send Nigeria into the inter-confederation play-off pathway for a final opportunity to qualify for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil. Ucheibe emphasized the need for the squad to move past the disappointment and concentrate on securing World Cup qualification.