File: Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu
Super Falcons coach Justine Madugu says Nigeria are determined to make the most of their second chance to qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup as they begin their play-off campaign against South Africa on Thursday.
The Falcons lost their automatic qualification opportunity after a 1-0 quarter-final defeat to Cameroon at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations on Sunday, but Madugu insists the setback has strengthened their resolve to secure a place at the World Cup in Brazil.
Nigeria, who were seeking to defend their WAFCON title, must now navigate the play-offs to reach the tournament in Brazil, with South Africa standing between them and another step towards qualification.
Having not missed out on any FIFA Women’s World Cup since inception, Madugu acknowledged the disappointment of missing out on automatic qualification but said the players were ready to respond when they face the Banyana Banyana.
