In a circulating video, Waldrum alleged that the NFF did not organise a proper pre-tournament training camp for the nine-time African champions despite receiving the funds meant for logistics and preparation. He criticised the poorly arranged October 2022 friendly in Japan, stating that some players arrived just a day before the match after travelling for over 16 hours, leaving the team without adequate training time. He also complained that the technical crew that accompanied the team was significantly smaller than FIFA’s permitted number, noting that the squad travelled with about 11 staff members instead of the 22 allowed. According to him, the absence of an analyst or scout meant he had to rely solely on video footage in evaluating opponents.
Waldrum further added that if Nigeria could not afford business-class flights for players and staff, FIFA would have covered the cost and deducted it from eventual earnings, suggesting that the poor travel arrangements had no justification.
While reacting to his claims, several reports highlighted that the Super Falcons did take part in multiple preparation activities before the tournament, including friendlies against the United States, Japan and Mexico; a training camp in Turkey in April 2023; and a pre-World Cup tour on Australia’s Gold Coast before arriving at the final FIFA camp in Brisbane.
Despite the alleged logistical shortcomings, the Super Falcons impressed at the World Cup. They held Canada and Ireland to goalless draws, defeated co-hosts Australia 3–2 in a memorable group-stage match and reached the Round of 16, where they were eliminated on penalties by eventual finalists England.
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