Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu has hinted that Toni Payne could be handed a starting role in midfield to replace the suspended Jennifer Echegini in Nigeria’s decisive Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Group C clash against Egypt, while firmly rejecting claims that sentiment influences his squad selection.
Nigeria head into the must-win encounter without two influential players. Midfielder Echegini is suspended after accumulating two yellow cards during the group stage, while defender Oluwatosin Demehin will also miss the game after her red card in the victory over Zambia.
Speaking during his pre-match press conference, Madugu revealed that team selection is driven by tactical demands and the specific qualities required to counter each opponent rather than reputation or public opinion.
“Sometimes selection of players is dependent on what you see or analyse about the opposition,” Madugu said.
“When you come up with your own strategy, you ask who will be able to execute it. You study the opposition, identify their strengths and weaknesses, their key players and how to deal with them.
