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Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu has brushed aside criticism of his tactical approach following Nigeria’s shock 3-2 defeat to WAFCON debutants Malawi.
Madugu came under scrutiny after the Super Falcons’ surprising loss to the Scorchers on Tuesday night, with many questioning his tactical decisions during the encounter.
The defeat was particularly significant, as it marked the first time the defending champions have lost to a debutant nation in the history of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
Madugu Responds To Critics
The 61-year-old acknowledged that fans have every right to express their opinions about the team’s performances.
“They are questioning my technical, and tactical ability because we lost a game. But was the Malawi game the first I have handled with the Super Falcons,” Madugu told a press conference on Friday.
“It was not the first game, i have handled a several other matches that we won. Nobody questioned me then.
“The fact is that we know what are doing. We are focused, and looking ahead. Like I said the last game we played was not the only we have played at the WAFCON. We played at the tournament in 2024, and we won. Because we lost one game, people are questioning the tactics. It is within their rights to do so. I don’t have any problem with that.”
Read Also:WAFCON 2026: Malawi Defeat A Wake-Up Call For Super Falcons — Madugu
On Team Selection Against Malawi
Madugu also stood by his team selection for the Malawi clash.
“Of course if a player does not train well, how do you prove to us that you are ready for action,” Madugu added.
“It is what we see you do in training that show your level of preparedness, whether you are ready or not.You don’t work with the mindset that you are always going to play. It doesn’t work that way.
“You have to look at the players, assess them , also with the game plan you have in mind. When you present an idea, who is adapting to it. Who is doing it well . These are the things you see before coming up with your selection.
“Then, when things go wrong, that’s why we are there as coaches to observe. If things are going wrong, what do we do is to correct them.
“It is not magic, there are things that takes time for the players to understand. Some will assimilate quickly,others won’t.”
Super Falcons Ready For Malawi Test
Despite the disappointing result, Madugu insisted his side is fully focused and ready for Saturday’s crucial Group C clash against Zambia.
“The feeling is good, everyone is looking very bright. We have put behind us the disappointment of the last game. We are looking forward to the game against Zambia,” Madugu declared.
By Adeboye Amosu
