However, Ngozi Okobi, a forward for the Super Falcons, has voiced her frustration with certain Nigerian journalists, alleging that they have exacerbated her situation after being left out of Randy Waldrum’s squad.
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The Super Falcons of Nigeria showcased an exceptional performance at the Women’s World Cup tournament, surpassing expectations by advancing unbeaten from the group stage.
Okobi, 29, was not included in the Super Falcons’ Women’s World Cup squad, a decision that she openly criticized through the media. She expressed her dissatisfaction with the choice made by the American coach.
During her absence, the Super Falcons achieved a remarkable feat, exceeding the expectations of Nigerian football enthusiasts by maintaining an unbeaten record in the group stage.
They held England’s Lionesses to a goalless draw in regular time, ultimately succumbing to a penalty shootout, with England emerging victorious with a score of 4-2.
In Okobi’s stead, Tony Payne stepped in and played a pivotal role as the primary creative force for Waldrum’s team.
After the FIFA World Cup, Ngozi Okobi commended Payne’s contributions while also implying that she believes she could have performed better.
Okobi’s complaints have been evident through various statements before and after the tournament. However, the situation seems to have escalated as she now criticizes the media for misinterpreting her statements.
She took to her Twitter page, expressing her frustration and questioning the media’s approach: “Why do you journalists always escalate things like this? Isn’t it enough from what Okobi said about Tony Payne? You all know it wasn’t what I meant.
Probably a wrong choice of words saying ‘SHE IS NOT THERE YET,’ while you know very well I praised her effort even.”
Continuing her frustration, Ngozi Okobi pointed out certain journalists for sensationalizing the issue.
She added: “Writing to commend her, yet you all keep making it into one big story. Aren’t you tired of all this? You keep writing and writing. This is almost pushing me to depression, seeing the kind of comments from Nigerians.”
Furthermore, Okobi revealed that much has transpired during the recently concluded tournament and expressed her desire for a break from media attention.
“After several days, you still went ahead to bring it up again? A lot has happened to me during this World Cup. Can you journalists let me breathe? Or do you want to start posting ‘RIP’ due to the damage you all have caused? God… I hate Nigeria media,” she concluded.
While Okobi’s intention was to express her disappointment at not being selected, it’s important to acknowledge the overall contribution of Coach Waldrum and the team he assembled.
