Madugu apologises for Super Falcons’ WAFCON 2026 exit, dismisses sack fears
Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu apologised for the team’s dismal showing at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, after a 2-1 quarter‑final loss to Cameroon ended Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the inter‑confederation playoffs and securing a spot in the FIFA Women’s World Cup for the first time since 1991. Madugu told reporters after the match against South Africa that his players gave their best but it was not good enough, and he took full responsibility for the outcome.
The elimination marks a historic low for Nigeria’s 10‑time African champions, raising questions about the future of women’s football in the country and the immediate scrutiny on Madugu’s position amid growing calls for his dismissal. His apology acknowledges the disappointment of fans who expected a deeper run, especially given the Super Falcons’ pedigree.
Despite the pressure, Madugu said he is not afraid of being sacked, noting he has served the country with pride and citing his record of 19 wins, four losses and four draws in 28 games. He framed the defeat as a crucial moment that fell short of expectations. Will the Nigeria Football Federation retain Madugu to rebuild the side for upcoming qualifiers, or will it seek a new coach to restore the team’s World Cup ambitions?