Madugu flags Super Falcons' lack of friendlies before WAFCON

Photo Credit - Super Falcons.

Super Falcons Head Coach Justin Madugu has raised concerns about the Nigerian women's national team's lack of international friendly matches leading up to the 2024 Africa Women's Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.

Madugu made this known on the hills of a successful friendly against Cameroon at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta on Tuesday June 3, 2025, where the Super Falcons defeated the Indomitable Lionesses 2-0 thanks to a brace from captain Rashidat Ajibade.

Speaking post-match, the gaffer stressed the importance of regular match exposure as he believes it's key for improving team tactics and giving more players a chance to earn 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,” said the coach.

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.”

Madugu also stated that the aim is to maintain the legacy of the Super Falcons, 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.”

Meanwhile, reacting to the postponement of the double fixtures to a single fixture affected his players’ rhythm as they had to adjust and regroup.

“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 victory over the Indomitable Lionesses as the countdown to WAFCON continues for them and their hopes for a record-extending tenth title.