Madugu Says Super Falcons Ready for Crucial Cameroon Clash

Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu says his players understand what is at stake as Nigeria prepare to face Cameroon in the quarter-finals of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

Nigeria, the defending champions, will meet the Indomitable Lionesses at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca on Sunday, with a place in the semi-finals and qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup at stake.

Madugu said the Super Falcons are fully prepared for the important encounter and determined to continue their title defence.

“It’s an important match because we all know what is at stake, the ticket for the World Cup. After the World Cup ticket, you have the semi-finals, which will also enable you to continue your quest for retaining the trophy,” Madugu said.

“We’ll go in there fully prepared, give it our best and ensure that we carry the day.”

Nigeria have faced Cameroon twice in recent friendly matches, but Madugu believes those games will have little bearing on Sunday’s quarter-final.

He noted that both teams have changed since those meetings, with some players who featured previously no longer in the squads.

“The last two games we played against Cameroon were preparatory games, and a lot of things went into those matches,” he said.

“There were players that were not involved then who are here now for both teams, so we’re not using those games to assess the current team.”

The Super Falcons conceded goals during the group stage, but Madugu remains confident that his team can improve defensively while maintaining their attacking strength.

“We have been working to ensure that those mistakes and loopholes that caused those goals are corrected. Yes, we conceded goals, but we equally score goals, so it’s still positive for us,” he said.

The coach also confirmed that there are some injury concerns in the squad, with the medical team working to get the affected players ready for the match.

Meanwhile, midfielder Toni Payne said the Super Falcons remain determined to qualify for the World Cup and continue their pursuit of another WAFCON title.

“Everyone in the team, including myself and the staff, are really confident going into this game,” Payne said.

“We know it’s going to be a physical game, but that’s something that we’re always prepared for.”

Payne also insisted that Nigeria’s hunger for success has not reduced despite their long history of winning the competition.

“I don’t think anyone gets tired of winning. We appreciate all the accomplishments we’ve made, but we’re just as hungry as ever,” she said.

The Super Falcons will secure a place in the semi-finals and qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup if they defeat Cameroon on Sunday.

The match is scheduled to kick off at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.