AFCON 2025
The technical director of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Austin Eguavoen, has backed the coach of the Super Falcons, Justin Madugu, to excel at the ongoing Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Justin Madugu’s Super Falcons have come under severe criticism after three matches at the competition, despite finishing top of the group with seven points and a clean sheet.
The Super Falcons have been criticised for their poor performance and a lack of conviction, especially in front of goal.
However, Eguavoen believes that coach Justin Madugu has what it takes to excel with the team in Morocco, given his experience over the years.
The three-time Super Eagles coach made his opinion known while chatting with Brila Media after the goalless draw against Algeria in their final group match on Sunday.
“I’m not surprised with the results we have so far… I’ve seen him play a couple of friendly games, which he did well, especially against Cameroon… and against Portugal prior to this tournament.” “He’s been an assistant to a couple of coaches. So the experience as an assistant, you know, coming into the mainstream now as a head coach, I don’t think there’s nothing to worry about because I think he’s got a bit of experience now… I want to see him stay as long as he can and then try to grind results for us.”
Nigeria topped Group B with seven points from three matches after victories over Tunisia, Botswana, and a draw against Algeria, who qualified for the quarter-finals for the first time.
The Super Falcons’ “Mission X” train faces a stern test as they take on the Copper Queens of Zambia for a place in the semi-finals of the competition.
Nigeria are hoping to rule the continent again as they hope to win a record tenth title, having missed out on the last edition with a disappointing fourth-placed finish.
