Super Falcons coach Justine Madugu is in a tough spot as Nigeria prepares for their second friendly against Senegal at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne today. Several players are making strong cases for spots in the squad for the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.
After a lackluster performance in their first match against Senegal last Friday, Madugu said he has a “good headache.” He is weighing his options and knows that having versatile players and depth in the squad is key as the defending champions ramp up their preparations for the tournament.
Nigeria won the first friendly 2-1, which raised concerns about how ready the 10-time African champions are. They are preparing to defend their title at the 2025 WAFCON in Morocco next month.
Asisat Oshoala scored first for Nigeria from the penalty spot, and midfielder Toni Payne added another goal. Senegal managed to get one back just four minutes before the game ended.
With today’s match coming up, Madugu is planning to give more players a chance to show what they can do. This match will be their last organized friendly before they dive into final preparations.
“For us, it is not just about winning. We are analysing the performances of the players and looking at what we hope to do when we get into the competition. The options we want to try in the competition are what we are really more concerned about,” Madugu said after the game.
“Winning is important because it boosts the morale of the players and the team generally. But for us, it is not the ultimate. Just as they’ve seen us, we have also watched them.
“We are trying as much as possible to ensure that most of the players in camp get some playing time so we can see what they can do. Sometimes you don’t need to play 90 minutes to convince us that you have something to offer.”
Even with the chance to test more players, Madugu knows what qualities he needs for the final camp.
“Every player in the team is important. They all have their roles to play and are aware that these preparatory games will determine who makes it to the WAFCON squad. Nobody is taking this opportunity lightly, and it is up to them to prove themselves,” Madugu said at the post-match press conference.
“As defending champions, there will be a lot of focus on us. We must develop options to vary our play. When you have utility players, it makes things more challenging for the opposition. That is a good headache for us as well. We are looking out for players who can play in different positions because you need to have those options and be ready at any point.”
In the last game, Madugu started Portsmouth Ladies goalkeeper Comfort Erhabor in place of the more experienced Chiamaka Nnadozie and Rivers Angels’ Anderline Mgbechi.
He also made several changes in the second half, allowing players like Rofiat Imuran, Joy Omewa, and Blessing Nkor to get some minutes. Meanwhile, Washington Spirit striker Gift Monday, Turkey-based Kafayat Shittu, Omorinsola Babajide, and others did not play.
Those players will be eager for their chances today ahead of the final call-ups for the team’s last training camp before the WAFCON kicks off on July 25 and runs until August 16.
In Morocco, the Falcons are aiming for their 11th title and will face Egypt, Zambia, and newcomers Malawi in Group C. Senegal will play against hosts Morocco, Algeria, and Kenya in Group A.
This year’s tournament is also the qualifier for the next FIFA Women’s World Cup. The top four teams will qualify directly for Brazil, while the fifth-placed team will enter a playoff for a chance to reach the finals.
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