Super Falcons of Nigeria head coach Justin Madugu has backed his team to rise to the occasion and end South Africa’s seven-year unbeaten run in regulation time at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
Speaking ahead of Tuesday’s semifinal in Casablanca, Madugu expressed full confidence in his players’ preparation and mentality, while highlighting their hunger to reclaim Nigeria’s dominance on the continent.
“The preparations are good. The girls have been very committed, determined. They are in good shape, they are well prepared,” Madugu told reporters.
South Africa arrive as defending champions and have not lost a WAFCON match in regulation time since 2018 , a run of 14 games. But the Nigerian coach believes the time has come for that record to fall.
“Yes, South Africa have not lost a game within regulation time since 2018. But records are meant to be broken.
No matter how long it takes, one day it will be broken. And we are hoping that by tomorrow, by the grace of God, that record will no longer exist.”
Super Falcons of Nigeria. Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok
Nigeria have grown into the tournament, winning three and drawing one of their four matches all played at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium, the same venue as Tuesday’s tie. The Falcons are yet to concede a goal in Casablanca.
“It’s a good thing that we are familiar with the environment and it places us at an advantage position. But then, when it comes to football games these days, home advantage does not really count,” Madugu warned.
Despite edging South Africa in Olympic qualifiers last year, Madugu played down the psychological edge that might give his side.
“It does not mean that it is an automatic thing for us. We must work hard for the victory that we desire. Every game is different.
They will be favourites as defending champions. They took the crown from us, we want to do the same.”
Madugu refused to judge Banyana Banyana on their previous performances and emphasized the strength of the South African team.
“They have a very good team football games can be very deceiving sometimes. You don’t judge teams based on what you see.Every game comes with a change.”
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He also stressed his belief in collective effort over individual stars, noting how emerging names like Esther Okoronkwo, Folashade Ijamilusi, and Chinwendu Ihezuo have stepped up in the absence of more experienced players like Asisat Oshoala.
“We don’t build a team around an individual. In case that individual does not come to the party on the game day, then what happens.
Tosin Demehin. Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok
Let’s play together as a team. So that even when one is out, whoever comes in fits in and the game continues.”
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Tuesday’s clash will be the fifth WAFCON semifinal between Nigeria and South Africa, adding another chapter to their storied rivalry:
2002: Nigeria 5–0 South Africa
2012: South Africa 1–0 Nigeria
2014: Nigeria 2–1 South Africa (Oshoala brace)
2016: Nigeria 1–0 South Africa (Oparanozie winner)
Madugu hopes that history continues to favour the Super Falcons.
“I pray that trend continues. So, if the trend continues, automatically it means we are winning back the trophy this time around.”
Osinachi Ohale celebrating Super Falcons first goal against Zambia in 2024 Wafcon quarter finals. Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok
Still, he admitted that pressure exists but the team is managing it well.
“With every game there will always be pressure.But we are managing ourselves well. We want to remain focused. The girls are fully focused and we all know what is at stake.”
The semifinal between Nigeria and South Africa kicks off at 5pm Nigerian time on Tuesday, July 22, at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.
