Nigerian Women’s World Cup star denounces ‘unacceptable’ resources at home as she reveals their camp has no gym and players sometimes have to SHARE beds

Nigerian striker Ifeoma Onumonu has opened up about their ‘unacceptable’ resources at home following their exit at the Women’s World Cup by England.

The Super Falcons took England all the way to penalties in their last 16 draw, although Sarina Wiegman’s side were more clinical from the spot with a 4-2 shootout win.

Onumonu, who took charge for the African nation against the Lionesses, highlighted the difference in support both teams receive at home.

She told the Guardian: ‘I’ve seen what England has access to. In Nigeria, we don’t have much access.

“Our training pitches are not great. Where we sleep is not great. Sometimes we share beds.

‘It’s not good enough. We don’t have much of that in terms of recovery. We do not have access to a gym in the camp in Nigeria. A lot has to be done.’

The 29-year-old who plays for Gotham FC added that it was difficult to adapt to the tournament in Australia and New Zealand.

She said: “We’re doing what we can because we like playing for our country, but hopefully they’ll make it easier for us to give our best. At home, the fields are not great. The grass is rocky, bumps everywhere. The stadium we play in for qualifying would surprise you.

She also revealed that the under-20 side “slept in airports for 24 hours” after being knocked out in the quarter-finals of last year’s U20 World Cup.

‘That’s not acceptable. What we have to fight for is bigger than us,” she said.

Nigeria impressed at this summer’s World Cup, going through their group unbeaten with draws against Canada and Ireland, with a win over hosts Australia.

However, they considered a boycott of their first match in the tournament after being told they would not receive tournament bonuses.

Manager Randy Waldrum also heavily criticized the Nigerian FA in two different podcasts, including comments about not paying players, poor facilities, a cancellation of a pre-tournament camp and meddling in selection and hiring matters.

Ian Wright had his say on social media, tweeting ‘Pay them!!!!!’ after their defeat to England.

Earlier this week, the global players’ union FIFPRO released a statement on behalf of the Nigeria women’s national team, confirming that they will assist the players in their ongoing dispute.

“Following the elimination of the Nigerian women’s national team from the FIFA Women’s World Cup, FIFPRO can confirm it is assisting players in a dispute with the Nigerian Football Association over bonus payments, camp allowances and expenses, some of which date back to 2021.

During the World Cup, the players expressed a desire to stay focused on their performance without making public statements or experiencing other distractions. However, the Super Falcons believe it is now time for the Nigerian Football Association to honor their commitments and pay the outstanding amounts.

“The team is extremely frustrated that they have had to sue the Nigerian Football Association for these payments before and during the tournament and that they may have to continue to do so afterwards. It is regrettable that players had to challenge their own federation at such an important time in their career.

“FIFPRO will continue to work with players to ensure their contractual rights are honored and outstanding payments are settled.”