Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu has reaffirmed his team’s ambition to claim a record-extending tenth title at the upcoming 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), following a 2-0 friendly victory over Cameroon’s Indomitable Lionesses on Tuesday.
The match, played at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta, was a spirited encounter between two of Africa’s fiercest women’s football rivals. Goals from the Nigerian side sealed a morale-boosting win, but Madugu emphasized that preparations are still ongoing.
“I want to appreciate the players for their performance this evening,” Madugu said post-match. “It is still a work in progress. We are trying to put our preparations together, but we must commend the girls for their gallant effort.”
Acknowledging the historic rivalry between Nigeria and Cameroon, Madugu noted that even so-called friendlies carry significant national pride.
“Games between Nigeria and Cameroon may be tagged friendlies, but there’s always prestige at stake. Everyone gives their best not to disappoint their country.”
Despite the win, the head coach expressed concern over the limited number of preparatory matches ahead of the WAFCON, which is set to kick off later this year.
“We would have appreciated playing more games so we can test our philosophies and strategies for the tournament,” he explained. “It would also give other players a chance to prove themselves as we finalize our squad.”
The nine-time African champions remain one of the most dominant forces in women’s football on the continent. However, Madugu acknowledged that expectations are high and that the pressure to maintain Nigeria’s standards is constant.
“We’re aware of what Nigerians expect. The Super Falcons are arguably the most successful national team in Nigeria’s history. With the kind of players we have and the clubs they represent, we must keep the bar high.”
Looking ahead, Madugu emphasized that the team’s ultimate goal is to return from the tournament as champions.
“We have an objective, and that is to win the trophy and make Nigerians proud,” he concluded. “We won’t look back or make excuses. We’ll keep working until we get it right.”
The Super Falcons are expected to ramp up preparations in the coming weeks as the countdown to WAFCON continues.
