Nigeria head coach Justin Madugu says the Super Falcons know what is at stake as they prepare to face Cameroon in the quarter-finals of WAFCON 2026 in Morocco, www.aclsports.com reports.
As Nigeria prepare for a meeting with one of Africa’s traditional powerhouses, Madugu believes his side are ready for the challenge ahead.
“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.”
Madugu also cautioned against reading too much into the recent friendly matches between both sides, insisting that the circumstances surrounding those encounters were different.
“The last two games we played against Cameroon were preparatory games and a lot of things went into those matches. There were players that were not involved then who are here now for both teams, so we’re not using those games to assess the current team.”
Nigeria have conceded goals in the group stage, but the coach remains confident his side can improve defensively while maintaining their attacking threat.
“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. Yes, we conceded goals, but we equally score goals, so it’s still positive for us.”
On the fitness of his squad, Madugu confirmed there were injury concerns ahead of the crucial fixture.
“We have some injury concerns in the team. The medical team is working on that to prepare the players in better shape.”
Toni Payne echoed her coach’s optimism, saying the team is focused on securing a World Cup ticket and extending their campaign.
“Everyone in the team, including myself and the staff, are really confident going into this game. It was our goal to get through the group stage and have a chance at qualifying for the World Cup. We did that, so we’re ready to continue on to that next step.”
She expects a physical contest against the Indomitable Lionesses but believes Nigeria are well prepared.
“We know every game is going to pose a different threat to us. They have their style and we have our own style. We know it’s going to be a physical game, but that’s something that we’re always prepared for. A lot of us have been playing football for a long time and we know what it takes to win games.”
The Inter Milan midfielder also stressed that Nigeria’s record success in the competition has not diminished the squad’s hunger for more silverware.
“I don’t think anyone gets tired of winning. We appreciate all the accomplishments we’ve made, but we’re just as hungry as ever. The opportunity to win an 11th title is something we’re all looking forward to.”
Nigeria will face Cameroon in the quarter-finals of WAFCON 2026 at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium, Casablanca, on Sunday, 9 August, with kick-off scheduled for 18:00 Nigerian time.
