Captain of Nigeria’s U-20 women’s national team, Joy Igbokwe, has expressed disappointment after missing the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland due to visa issues.

The Polish Embassy in Nigeria denied entry visas to Igbokwe and defender Faridat Abdulwahab, forcing the duo to withdraw from the squad.

Igbokwe expressed her frustration in a message on Facebook, saying her World Cup dream had been cut short despite her efforts during the qualifiers.

The Falconets, two-time FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup silver-medallists, left Abuja last week for their final preparations in Trzebnica, Poland, without the two players.

Former goalkeeper Sunny Edoreh criticised the Nigeria Football Federation for failing to explore other avenues to resolve the visa issue.

Edoreh said the NFF could have engaged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or FIFA to seek another opportunity for the players to obtain visas.

He also criticised the quick replacement of Igbokwe and Abdulwahab with Vivian Kachi and Alaba Olabiyi, describing the decision as unprofessional.

He said Igbokwe’s participation could have provided her with valuable exposure and opportunities to attract European clubs.

The Falconets, coached by Moses Aduku, will now continue their preparations for the tournament in Poland.