Nigeria head coach Justin Madugu says the Super Falcons are “good to go” against Botswana, while goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie insists the team is “physically and mentally ready” for what they expect to be a tough but winnable contest in their second group game at the 2024 WAFCON, www.aclsports.com reports.
Nigeria began their campaign with a win over Tunisia, while Botswana are under pressure after losing to Algeria in their opener. Both teams head into Wednesday’s clash with very different motivations, and the Super Falcons are leaving no stone unturned in their preparation.
Coach Justin Madugu highlighted the uniqueness of each opponent, stating that the technical crew has studied Botswana carefully and tailored their plans accordingly. “Preparation for every game is different. Approaches are different because no two teams are the same,” Madugu said. “We’ve watched them. We’ve done our assessment. And based on that, we’ve prepared differently. We’re good to go.”
Madugu also reflected on the need to improve from the first game. “We’ve assessed our performance against Tunisia. What we did well, what we didn’t do well, we’re working on all of that,” he said. “There will always be errors, and sometimes, even a change in personnel is needed. But our goal is to be better with each match.”
With Botswana in desperate need of a win, Madugu acknowledged the challenge but stressed that the Falcons also have a mission of their own. “They know a loss knocks them out, so they’ll come at us. But we have our target, too. We came here to achieve something, and we’ll take it one step at a time.”
Africa’s best goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie echoed her coach’s confidence, while acknowledging the threat Botswana could pose. “We’ve been preparing as best as we can,” she said. “The coaches have given us the right training. We respect Botswana. We played them in 2022, but this is a different tournament. We’ll bring our best and try to win.”
On the pressure of keeping a clean sheet and the stakes involved, Nnadozie responded with maturity: “We set our goals before arriving here. It’s going to feel like a final because it’s a must-win for them. But we’re ready, physically and mentally. We know they have good players, but we’re prepared.”
Having broken the jinx of failing to win Nigeria’s opening game at WAFCON since 2016, Madugu admitted the pressure is on to keep the momentum going. But he was quick to note that every team at this stage is competitive. “Botswana didn’t play badly against Algeria. They simply didn’t take their chances,” he said. “We’re not underestimating anyone. We’ve identified their strengths and weaknesses. Our job is to neutralize the former and exploit the latter.”
Madugu also took time to praise the support Nigerians consistently show the Falcons and said the expectations from fans serve as motivation rather than pressure. “Nigerians are passionate about the Super Falcons. The love, the care, the expectations, it fuels us. We know how happy Nigerians are when we win, and we want to give them more of that.”
With several new players in the squad, including Rinsola Babajide who scored on her tournament debut, there have been questions around having many debutants in the squad. But both coach and captain dismissed any cause for concern. “We’ve seen the quality of these debutants in friendlies and in their clubs,” Madugu said. “They’ve earned their place. The older players have welcomed them well, guiding and motivating them. It’s a learning curve, but they haven’t shown any signs of stage fright.”
Nnadozie added: “I was once in their shoes in 2018. The team carried me along, and I’m doing the same now. They are good players, and we’re all working together.”
Speaking on the broader goal of the team and the symbolism of this tournament for Nigerian coaches, Madugu was candid. “We’re here for Mission X, to win the title. But beyond that, this is also a moment for indigenous coaches. Since 2016, no Nigerian coach has led the Falcons to the title. The federation trusted us, and we want to prove that local coaches can succeed on this stage too.”
On his tactical decision-making, including big calls like substituting star striker Asisat Oshoala, Madugu clarified the team’s structure. “We respect all the players. Our strategy determines who plays. We make these decisions together, based on what gives us the best chance. Everyone trains hard. Everyone contributes.”
Closing with a message to Nigerians, Nnadozie made her mission clear: “We know why we’re here, to bring the trophy home. No team is a pushover, and everyone wants to beat Nigeria. But we’ve learned from 2022. We’re not here to repeat history. We’re here to make it.”
Nigeria vs Botswana kicks off on Wednesday, and with both sides hungry for a result, fans can expect a fierce contest. For the Super Falcons, it’s not just about three points, it’s about pride, progress, and proving a point.
