National Teams
WAFCON 2024: Super Falcons honour late President Buhari with black armbands vs Algeria
By Dayo Awoniyi
Nigeria paid a heartfelt tribute to former President Muhammadu Buhari on Sunday evening, wearing black armbands during their final Group B match against Algeria at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
The gesture, quietly observed but deeply resonant, unfolded at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca just hours after news of Buhari’s passing was confirmed.
Though the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) did not release an official statement ahead of kickoff, team officials later confirmed that the armbands were worn in remembrance of the late leader.
The players’ armbands were visible throughout the match, particularly during the national anthem and in the moments of play that followed.
While no formal moment of silence was held, the symbolic act struck an emotional chord both on the pitch and across the footballing world, underscoring the unifying power of sport in moments of national reflection.
Buhari, who led Nigeria first as military head of state in the 1980s and later as a civilian president from 2015 to 2023, was known for his steady support of Nigerian sports.
His administration prioritised increased funding and welfare for national teams, including the Super Falcons, who enjoyed notable successes during his tenure.
The Falcons, already group favourites, delivered a commanding performance to book their place in the quarterfinals, with the tribute to Buhari adding emotional weight to their win.
It was a moment that blended national pride with personal remembrance, demonstrating once again that football, beyond competition, serves as a powerful conduit for unity, memory, and collective identity.
