Women’s World Cup: FIFA will pay players directly due to Nigeria – Fatma Samoura

Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) Secretary General, Fatma Samoura says Nigeria was the sole reason why the world governing body will pay players their Women’s World Cup prize monies directly.

Samoura was in jubilant mood as the Senegalese paid a surprised visit to the Falcons after the 0-0 draw against European side Republic of Ireland to guarantee their progression to the Round of 16.

The World Football governing body scribe says the margin between Africa and the women’s game globally is getting closer as she believes an African women’s team will lift the World Cup before the men.

“The difference between women’s football league in Africa and the rest of the World is getting narrow and narrow,” Samoura told NFF TV.

“So I have full confidence that we will have women’s World Cup lifted in Africa before the men and I know you are positioned for that.

“It is because of you (Super Falcons) that for the first time in the history of FIFA that the FIFA Women’s World Cup prize money will be paid directly to you, the players.”

The Super Falcons will be taking on England in their round of 16 tie.