Nigeria/South Africa: Super Falcons Coach Madugu Fires Back At Critics Ahead of South Africa World Cup Play-Off
[Premium Times] Justin Madugu has defended his team selection and tactical decisions, insisting Nigeria are focused on beating South Africa and keeping their 2027 World Cup hopes alive.
Super Falcons Coach Justin Madugu has responded to criticism of his team selection and tactics ahead of Nigeria's crucial 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup play-off against South Africa. Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Madugu defended his choices, stating that his decisions were always aimed at helping Nigeria win. He emphasized that every game requires selecting players who are ready to ensure victory, and questioned why criticism changes when losses occur.
Madugu stressed that Nigeria's World Cup hopes now depend on Thursday's match and that the team is treating it with utmost importance. The coach and captain, Rasheedat Ajibade, expressed their commitment to giving their best, regardless of whether they are in the starting lineup or on the bench. Madugu acknowledged the opposition's fitness and the limited time available to implement strategies, but assured that the selected players are ready to perform.
The coach also urged Nigerians to support the team, acknowledging the disappointment of losing the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations but emphasizing the need to focus on the upcoming World Cup play-off.
Written by urgent.news from AllAfrica's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
