Madugu: Super Falcons won’t pull punches against Cameroon

Super Falcons head Coach Justine Madugu says Nigeria will no hold-backs when they take on Cameroon’s Indomitable Lionesses in two friendly matches at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne-Remo on Saturday and at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex, Abeokuta on Tuesday.

Madugu made this known to the NFF media as the most decorated female team in Africa is set to lock horns with their neighbors Cameroon.

Speaking ahead of the game he outlined the objective of the game as a means to improve in the lapses.

“Our objectives for these two matches include improving our game philosophy and tactical approach. We want to observe and assess the players in line with our philosophy. We are determined to improve the team’s coordination, team spirit and mentality towards winning the Women AFCON.

The gaffer also acknowledged that although it is a friendly game, the winning mindset has been put in his team as they look forward to the Saturday friendly match at home.

“Yes, these are friendly matches but we must approach things with the right mentality, with the attitude that we want to win, and with the mindset that we are already at the championship. It will not be right for us to treat the games with kid’s gloves and earn results that will have an untoward psychological effect on the team going to Morocco.”

Madugu is confident that the players grasp the fierce rivalry between Nigeria and Cameroon on the field, as he expects them to treat the upcoming games with the utmost seriousness.

“We must ensure a positive mentality and keep to the game plan. It is important for us to use the games to underscore our preparedness for the Women AFCON.”

The Super Falcons and the Lionesses have a history of competitive encounters, with Nigeria often emerging victorious. Most recently, the Falcons secured a 1-0 aggregate win against the Lionesses in an Olympic qualifying fixture, thanks to Esther Okoronkwo’s decisive goal in Abuja.

Their rivalry extends further back, as exemplified by the 2016 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations hosted by Cameroon. In that final, the Super Falcons once again thwarted the Lionesses’ aspirations, with Desire Oparanozie scoring a late winner to clinch Nigeria’s eighth continental title.

The Super Falcons will be up against Tunisia, Algeria and Botswana in group B of the 13th Women AFCON in Morocco.

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