Former Super Falcons head coach, Randy Waldrum, has challenged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to give a clear account of how it spent the $960,000 FIFA preparation grant
This is the grant that is allegedly released to all World Cup–bound nations in October 2022.
In a video currently circulating on social media, Randy Waldrum claimed that FIFA provided the funds specifically for pre-tournament preparations ahead of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
However,the NFF failed to organise a proper training camp.
According to him, he received information from a trusted source within the United States who has links with FIFA officials. “I was told that every country was given $960,000 in October to prepare for the World Cup. So where is that money?” he asked.
Coach Slams Poor Preparation and Chaotic Japan Friendly
Waldrum criticised the federation’s planning, particularly the team’s October 2022 international friendly against Japan.
Also, he described the trip as poorly coordinated and physically draining for the players.
He revealed that several players arrived only hours before the match, with some completing 16-hour flights and stepping off the plane the night before kick-off.
Five of his intended starters, he added, joined the squad at the last minute.
“We flew in, played the match, and immediately returned home. We lost five full days that were supposed to be used for training,” he lamented.
Technical Crew ‘Half the Size’ of FIFA Standard
Waldrum also accused the NFF of neglecting crucial technical support systems required at the highest level of women’s football.
He stated that while FIFA permits teams to travel with up to 22 technical staff, Nigeria managed only around 11, leaving the team severely understaffed.
“I don’t have an analyst, and I scout myself. Other teams, like the US, have dedicated scouts stationed in Europe. We don’t even have scouts travelling with us to Australia. Everything I do is based on video analysis and whatever information I can gather online,” he said.
Poor Travel And Camp Arrangements
Waldrum further argued that FIFA allows federations to book business-class flights for teams.
Also, the cost later deducted automatically from tournament prize earnings.
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He insisted that this provision makes it difficult to justify the poor travel logistics and lack of a structured training camp provided for the Super Falcons.
