MADUGU TO SUPER FALCONS: NO ROOM FOR COMPLACENCY AHEAD OF BENIN RETURN LEG

October 27, 2025

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Head coach Justine Madugu of Nigeria’s Super Falcons has urged his squad to start fast and aim for a commanding result in the first leg of their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifier against the Benin Republic. The return leg is scheduled for home soil days later.

Madugu, whose side recently reclaimed the continental crown, stressed that while celebrating the achievement, the team must swiftly refocus on the next task — making qualification as comfortable as possible. The coach reiterated his confidence in his squad’s depth, even as key midfielder Jennifer Echegini was ruled out through injury.

“We have a team that will go out there and make us proud. On Friday we will play our game and seek the goals that will put us in good stead ahead of the return leg,” Madugu said, signalling that his mindset is set on delivering an early statement.

The Super Falcons are expected to deploy a strong starting lineup, built around captain Rasheedat Ajibade, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and forward Asisat Oshoala — with Madugu emphasising the need to dominate possession and convert scoring chances early.

With the first leg played away and the return leg on home turf, the Super Falcons seek to make the second match a formality. Madugu’s message is clear: no complacency, and an early advantage is essential.