Coach Thomas Dennerby has saluted the gallantry of the Super Falcons after they almost pegged back hosts and World Cup favourites France in a final Group A game on Monday night.
The Falcons could now square up against either Group B winners Germany or Italy, who are topping Group C, should results by the other teams work in their favour.
It needed a retaken penalty kick for France to beat the African champions amid controversies at a packed stadium in Rennes.
“All my players are heroes…France are a really good team, but they don’t need support from anybody to win the game,” fumed Dennerby after the game.
The experienced Swedish coach refused to comment on the officiating, saying he did not wish to be kicked out of the World Cup.
Captain Desire Oparanozie was equally proud of the gutsy display of the team.
“I am proud of this team,” she hailed on Twitter.
Former Super Eagles coach Sunday Oliseh praised: “Extremely proud of our Super Falcons of Nigeria vs France at the World Cup.
“These girls gave it everything against a French side cheered on by a near full stadium and a doubtful retaken penalty.
“I am sad, disappointed, but proud of these girls.”
