Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu and team captain Rasheedat Ajibade have assured Nigerians that the team is fully prepared for their opening WAFCON 2024 fixture against Tunisia, www.aclsports.com reports.
The nine-time African champions Nigeria, begin their quest for a record-extending 10th title against the North Africans, and both Madugu and Ajibade spoke confidently about the mood in camp and the task ahead.
Speaking during the pre-match press conference, Coach Madugu expressed satisfaction with the team’s build-up to the tournament.
“It’s been quite a good one,” he said. “We’ve been preparing very well. The girls have been responding positively to everything; training, preparations, all other schedules. They’ve handled everything professionally, and we are good to go.”
Captain Ajibade echoed her coach’s sentiments, praising the backroom staff and the players’ collective focus.
“As my coach rightly said, everything is in order. The team is responding really well. The backroom staff and everyone are working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure we perform at an optimum level,” said the 25-year-old.
Ajibade, who recently parted ways with Atlético Madrid Femenino, admitted that managing club transitions while captaining Nigeria at a major tournament hasn’t been easy.
“To be honest, I’m human, and it’s really challenging. But with the help and grace of God, I’ve had to stay professional,” she said.
“My career is important, but this tournament is a priority. I have to focus on what I can control. My agents are handling the background processes while I concentrate on playing football and representing my nation in the best possible way.”
Reacting to suggestions that Nigeria’s group, which includes Tunisia, is an easy draw, Madugu dismissed such claims, stating that every team deserves respect.
“Everyone is entitled to their opinion, but for us, we respect all the teams that qualified. You can’t call any team a minor anymore in African football,” Madugu noted.
“Some teams might be stronger, but none should be underestimated. They all earned their place here. Ratings don’t play the match, performance on match day does.”
With Tunisia up first, the coach insisted that past records against North African teams would not lead to complacency.
“We’ve played North African teams before and seen the development of women’s football across the continent. No game will be easy,” he added.
“We will approach Tunisia with the seriousness and respect they deserve. They are preparing just as much as we are. The game will decide everything.”
Madugu also reflected on his journey through Nigeria’s women’s football development pathway, from youth levels to the senior team, acknowledging the challenge of maintaining the Super Falcons’ high standards.
“It’s a privilege, not a right, to serve at all these levels,” he said. “The transition hasn’t been easy, but it has enriched our experience. We always aim to give the girls the best, and we’re committed to improving the standards already set for the Super Falcons.”
“Mission X is our slogan — and we’ve come to fulfil it.”
With the Falcons chasing their first WAFCON title since 2018, Ajibade shared the team’s excitement and assured fans of their dedication.
“The mood in camp is amazing. We’re eager to show the talent we have as a team,” she said.
“To our fans back home and across the continent, keep praying for us, keep supporting us. Our mission here is to make you proud, and we will do our best.”
As the countdown to kickoff ticks closer, all eyes will be on the Super Falcons to deliver a performance that sets the tone for their WAFCON 2024 campaign. With a united squad, experienced leadership, and a legacy to uphold, Nigeria’s mission begins in earnest, and the journey to reclaim continental glory starts against Tunisia.
