Madugu Laments Lack of Friendly Matches, Emphasizes Impact on Super Falcons' Readiness For WAFCON

Madugu Laments Lack of Friendly Matches, Emphasizes Impact on Super Falcons' Readiness For WAFCON 

By Niyi Busari 

Super Falcons Head Coach Justin Madugu has expressed concern over the limited number of international friendly matches available to the Nigerian women’s national team ahead of the 2024 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations (WAFCON), BSNSports.cim.ng reports.

Speaking after the team’s 2-0 victory over Cameroon in an international friendly played at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta on Tuesday, Madugu stressed the importance of regular match exposure in refining team tactics and offering more players opportunities to stake their claim for a spot in the final tournament squad.

 “We would have loved the opportunity to play more matches. It would have helped the players better understand our philosophy and tactical approach ahead of the Nations Cup,” Madugu said. “It also would have allowed us to assess more players and pick the best legs for the tournament. Nevertheless, we are making the most of the opportunities we have and preparing as best as we can.”

He described the Super Falcons as a “work in progress,” emphasizing that even during a tournament, team development must continue. “The team is not yet a finished product. Work continues throughout a competition. We’re fully aware of Nigerians' expectations—this is the most successful women's national team in Africa, and we are determined to maintain and improve upon that legacy. Our goal is clear: to win the trophy.”

Madugu also pointed to scheduling disruptions ahead of the Cameroon match, noting that inconsistent fixture planning had an effect on individual player performance.

 “When you set a schedule, it’s important to stick to it. The inconsistencies around the Cameroon fixture affected the players' rhythm. But I must commend the team—they didn’t let it affect them mentally. While it might have influenced the early part of the game, they regrouped, adjusted, and took control,” he explained.

Despite the challenges, the Super Falcons secured a confident 2-0 win over the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon, boosting morale as the countdown to WAFCON continues.