Interim Coach of Nigeria’s Super Falcons, Justin Madugu, has expressed unwavering optimism, the team can win the 2024 WAFCON title despite recent challenges.
Madugu, who assisted Randy Waldrum at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, emphasized the team’s determination to rectify the setback from the last Cup of Nations setback.
The Falcons, having secured qualification for WAFCON 2024, are set on proving that the loss to South Africa was a temporary lapse. Madugu stated, “Our target and focus is nothing other than going for the trophy in Morocco. We have to prove that what happened last time around was a mistake which we are ready to correct by winning back the trophy.”
Reflecting on the experience gained from the last WAFCON, Madugu highlighted the lessons learned and affirmed the team’s commitment to avoiding past errors. He acknowledged the challenges faced since taking charge as head coach but expressed gratitude for the collective efforts of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), players, and backroom staff.
In response to whether there is any particular team the Super Falcons fear in Africa, Madugu confidently asserted, “Super Falcons do not fear any team in Africa. Rather, other countries should dread us. We have not fallen to the level of dreading anybody. We have respect for every team, but Super Falcons will never dread anybody.”
Looking ahead, Madugu outlined the team’s broader goals, aiming not only to secure victory in WAFCON 2024 but also to qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. He emphasized that the success achieved so far is a collective effort and expressed confidence in the team’s journey, stating, “The aim is to qualify for the Olympic Games and win the 2024 WAFCON.”
With the Super Falcons under Madugu’s interim leadership, Nigerian football enthusiasts are hopeful for a triumphant return to the WAFCON stage and potentially securing a ticket to the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.