WAFCON 2026: Madugu Insists Super Falcons Have Moved On As Nigeria Face Zambia In Must-Win Clash
By Saheed Afolabi
Nigeria head coach Justin Madugu has declared that his side have fully recovered from their shock opening defeat to Malawi and are locked in on Saturday’s crucial WAFCON Group C encounter against Zambia.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference ahead of the kick-off at Al Madina Stadium in Rabat, Madugu said the mood in camp remains positive despite the 3-2 loss to the tournament debutants that left Nigeria on zero points.
“Although we lost the first game to a debutant, we have moved past it. Everyone has gotten over what happened in the last game, and the mood in camp is very good. The team has settled down and is now fully focused on the next game,” Madugu said.
The coach also pushed back against criticism of his tactics and selections that followed the Malawi result, stressing that his methods were not questioned when the team was winning.
“My tactics and technical ability were not questioned until after we lost the opening game. This is not my first game with the team. I have handled several matches that we won, and nothing was said then. Without saying much, we know what we are doing as a team.”
Madugu defended his player selection process, insisting decisions are based on a combination of the game plan and training performances.
“Several things have to be considered when selecting players. The game plan is part of it, while what players show during training also determines their readiness and whether they fit into the team’s lineup. Whatever decisions we make are based on what we believe is best for the team, although, as humans, things can sometimes go wrong.”
On the balance between experienced players and younger talents in the squad, Madugu emphasised the need for a mix of leadership and fresh energy.
“The team does not need to have a complete squad of older players. We need a few experienced players for their knowledge, leadership, encouragement, and support. At the same time, we also have to consider the current capacity of those players.
“It is difficult to find players who are better than some of the experienced ones we have, but everyone has their time. We have also been integrating younger players. Sometimes you find exceptional talents regardless of age, but such players still require proper guidance to maximize their abilities.”
Nigeria sit third in Group C after the opening round, with Zambia topping the standings following their 6-0 thrashing of Egypt. Only the top two teams will advance to the quarter-finals, making Saturday’s match a high-stakes test for the defending champions as they look to revive their title defence and keep their 2027 World Cup qualification hopes alive.
