‘Giving up is not an option’ - Super Falcons veteran on injury ahead of WAFCON final

Despite a huge blow for the Super Falcons ahead of the WAFCON final, the veteran winger is as determined as ever

Francisca Ordega's dream of lifting a fifth Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title is hanging in the balance as she battles an injury just hours before Nigeria face Morocco in the final.

The 31-year-old winger took to social media to express her frustration but remained defiant in spirit.

Ordega doubtful, but not defeated

The experienced Super Falcons forward picked up an injury in training ahead of the semi-final clash against South Africa and was left out of the matchday squad entirely.

Since then, she has not fully returned to team training and is now in a race against time to be fit for the final at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat.

Despite being a surprise inclusion in the WAFCON 2024 squad, Ordega has only featured once so far in the tournament.

Still, her voice carries weight in the locker room, and her determination to fight through adversity speaks volumes.

Veteran sets sights on fifth title

Though physically sidelined, Ordega’s message on social media revealed a mindset that refuses to break.

“Injured? Yes. Sad? Yes. But one thing for sure giving up is not an option… I will be back stronger and better,” she declared.

Currently playing for Al-Ittihad Ladies in Saudi Arabia, Ordega has been a pillar of Nigeria’s golden generation.

With four WAFCON titles to her name, she is eager to help Nigeria reclaim African dominance, even if it means doing so from the sidelines.