Super Falcons head coach, Justine Madugu, has pledged that his team will give everything to meet the expectations of Nigerians deliver as they prepare for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
Speaking to the Nigeria Football Federation’s media team ahead of the tournament, Madugu expressed deep appreciation for the unwavering support from fans and assured that both players and technical staff are fully committed to rewarding that faith with strong performances.
“We appreciate Nigerians for their consistent support for the Super Falcons,” Madugu said. “They have always shown great confidence in the team and have stood by us in every way possible. On our part, we are doing everything we can to sustain that confidence, and we will try as much as possible to meet their expectations.”
The nine-time African champions concluded their final preparations with a morale-boosting 3–1 friendly win over Ghana on Sunday, and they will kick off their WAFCON campaign on July 6 against Tunisia at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, before facing Algeria and Botswana in their remaining Group B fixtures.
Madugu appealed to fans for continued prayers and goodwill, noting that public support plays a vital role in the team’s success.
“Let them just continue to trust and support the team, pray for the team, and wish the team well,” he urged.
While Nigeria are widely seen as favourites to lift a record-extending 10th title, Madugu insists he is not weighed down by pressure. Instead, he emphasized the team’s collective focus on achieving their primary objective: winning the trophy.
“I am not under pressure. There will be stories and distractions, but we are staying focused on what lies ahead.
We know our target. We are going for the trophy — that’s what doing well means for us. It is mission ‘X’ for every one of us.”
The Falcons’ head coach also spoke about the broader implications of his success for homegrown coaches in Nigeria.
“We are not just representing ourselves; we are representing all Nigerian coaches. If we succeed, it opens the door for others to be trusted with this kind of responsibility. If we fail, it makes things more difficult for the next coach coming behind.”
Nigeria will be aiming to reclaim the continental crown from reigning champions South Africa, who dethroned them in 2022.
With a blend of experienced stars and rising talents, Madugu believes the Super Falcons are ready to rise to the occasion and make the nation proud once again.