We’re ready for Zambia – Madugu
August 1, 2026 3:09 am
File: Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu
By Peter Akinbo
Super Falcons coach Justine Madugu has brushed aside criticism of his tactical approach following Nigeria’s shock 3-2 defeat to WAFCON debutants Malawi, insisting his side are ready for Saturday’s crucial Group C clash with Zambia, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
Madugu came under scrutiny after the surprising loss to the Scorchers on Tuesday night, a defeat that marked the first time the defending champions have lost to a debutant nation in the history of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
The 61-year-old acknowledged that fans have every right to question his methods but pointed to his record with the team.
“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 defended his team selection for the Malawi match, explaining that training performances guide his decisions.
“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.”
Despite the disappointment, Madugu said the mood in camp has lifted ahead of the Zambia test, which he described as a must-win game.
“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.”
Peter, who has been covering sports for PUNCH for close to two years, focuses on combat sports reporting, special features and human angle stories
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