Morocco, host country of this 14e Women’s African Cup of Nations, knocked out Nigeria, defending champion in the semi-finals on Monday. The Atlas Lionesses qualified on penalties (5-4, 1-1 after extra time). However, Nigerians are very much complained about the refereeing of the game, but Randy Waldrum, decided not to comment too much on it.
Reigning champions Nigeria’s Super Falcons were beaten after the final penalty shootout (5-4) by Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses on Monday night at Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat after playing out a draw 1-1 after extra time.
Nigeria, who were aiming for a twelfth title in this women’s AFCON, felt bad after seeing two players sent off in the second half after VAR criticism, including their top star striker Rasheedat Ajibade.
After the semi-final loss, Nigeria women’s coach Randy Waldrum opted out of refereeing the match. “We (the coaches) can’t comment on the refereeing, we’re going to be in trouble”says the American technician with a smile on his face.
The latter instead chose to focus on what his team did well, stating that the Super Falcons were on top of the game until their players were sent off.
“We controlled the game until the first red card, then the second red card, I’ll put it this way”Waldrum said.
Although he decided not to talk about the refereeing, the American said he was proud of the efforts made by his players after playing most of the second half with nine players on the field against 11 Moroccans. “I’m proud of the girls tonight. We wanted to win the game, not just the World Cup ticket. Our substitutions were perfect and we can’t ask for more from the players, they did their best. » he indicates.
Nigeria’s semi-final loss to Morocco will see them miss the Women’s AFCON final for the first time since 2012, ending their undoubted dominance.
The Super Falcons will take on Zambia in the third place match on Friday July 22 to determine who will win the bronze medal.