Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu has promised that Nigeria will be fully prepared and give everything when they face Cameroon in the quarter-finals of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.
The defending champions will renew their rivalry with 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 both at stake.
Madugu acknowledged the importance of the high-profile encounter, insisting that his players understand what is required and are determined to produce their best performance.
“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 continue your quest for retaining the trophy. We’ll go in there fully prepared, give it our best and ensure that we carry the day.”
The Super Falcons conceded five goals during the group stage, and Madugu admitted that improving their defensive organisation will be crucial against Cameroon.
The coach revealed that the technical crew has worked on correcting the errors that led to the goals conceded in the opening phase of the tournament.
“There can always be a starting point when you don’t concede goals, and we’re believing it will start from the quarter-final stage. We have been working to ensure that those mistakes and loopholes that caused those goals are corrected.”
Despite the defensive concerns, Madugu remains positive about Nigeria’s overall performance, pointing to the team’s attacking output as another source of confidence.
“Yes, we conceded goals, but we equally score goals, so it’s still positive for us,” he added.
With a World Cup ticket and a place in the WAFCON semi-finals on the line, the Super Falcons will need to produce a complete performance to overcome their familiar rivals and keep their title defence alive.