Super Falcons head coach, Justine Madugu, has dismissed concerns over his tactical competence following Nigeria’s unexpected 3-2 defeat to WAFCON newcomers Malawi, maintaining that his team remains fully focused on Saturday’s decisive Group C encounter against Zambia, The Punch reports.
The defeat to the Scorchers on Tuesday night sparked criticism of the coach’s approach, as it marked the first time the reigning African champions have suffered a loss to a debutant nation in the history of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
Responding to the backlash, the 61-year-old insisted that one disappointing result should not overshadow the successes recorded under his leadership with the Super Falcons.
“They are questioning my technical and tactical ability because we lost a game. But was the Malawi game the first I have handled with the Super Falcons,” Madugu said.
“It was not the first game. I have handled several other matches that we won. Nobody questioned me then. The fact is that we know what we are doing. We are focused and looking ahead. We played at the tournament in 2024 and we won. Because we lost one game, people are questioning the tactics. It is within their rights to do so. I do not have any problem with that.”
Madugu also stood by his team selection against Malawi, stressing that players earn their places based on their performances during training sessions.
“Of course, if a player does not train well, how do you prove to us that you are ready for action?” he added.
“It is what we see you do in training that shows your level of preparedness, whether you are ready or not. You do not work with the mindset that you are always going to play. It does not work that way.
“You have to look at the players, assess them, also with the game plan you have in mind. When you present an idea, who is adapting to it, who is doing it well, these are the things you see before coming up with your selection. Then, when things go wrong, that is why we are there as coaches, to observe and correct them. It is not magic. There are things that take time for the players to understand. Some will assimilate quickly, others will not.”
Looking ahead to Nigeria’s crucial showdown with Zambia, Madugu said the squad has moved on from the setback against Malawi and is mentally prepared for the challenge.
“The feeling is good, everyone is looking very bright. We have put behind us the disappointment of the last game. We are looking forward to the game against Zambia,” he said.
“We are aware that Zambia’s confidence will be boosted by their victory over Egypt. We will also not want to approach the game in a manner that suggests we cannot be beaten. We know what is at stake, it is a must-win game.”
