Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu has insisted that securing qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup remains Nigeria’s biggest objective as the team prepares for a must win TotalEnergies WAFCON 2026 clash against Zambia.
Speaking during Friday’s pre-match press conference, Madugu admitted the opening defeat to Malawi had increased the pressure on his side but stressed that Nigeria still controls its own destiny.
The coach said the players fully understand the significance of the tournament, which doubles as a World Cup qualifying competition.
“We’re all fully aware of the consequences of not winning our games and the importance of this edition because it gives you the opportunity of playing at the World Cup,” Madugu said.
Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu says World Cup qualification remains Nigeria’s top priority, while Chiamaka Nnadozie insists the team has moved on from the Malawi defeat ahead of the decisive WAFCON clash against Zambia.
The Super Falcons failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA Women’s World Cup after missing out during the qualification campaign, and Madugu acknowledged the disappointment remains fresh among Nigerian football followers.
He revealed that avoiding a repeat of that setback has become a major source of motivation inside the camp.
“We all want to be at the World Cup and we know what it means to Nigerians. We will do everything possible to make sure we don’t have a repeat of what happened with the men’s team.”
Madugu added that World Cup qualification goes beyond football results, saying Nigeria’s presence on the global stage creates opportunities for players, coaches, journalists and the wider football industry.
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According to him, participation at the tournament offers valuable international exposure while strengthening the country’s image in world football.
“When the World Cup is played and Nigeria is not there, a lot of people are not happy. It also creates opportunities for our players and many others connected with the game.”
Alongside the coach, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie insisted the squad has already moved on from the disappointment of the opening defeat and is fully focused on the challenge against Zambia.
The reigning CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year said morale remains high despite the criticism that followed the Malawi result.
“The past is in the past. Everybody is okay. The spirit is very high and we’re just focusing on the next game.”
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Nnadozie added that the players have learned important lessons from the defeat and are determined to produce a stronger performance.
“We’ve learned a lot since the last game and hopefully we’ll get things right in the next one.”
Nigeria face Zambia needing a positive result to keep their hopes of reaching both the WAFCON knockout stage and the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup firmly alive.
