WAFCON 2024: Madugu Acknowledges Zambia's Quality, Confident In Falcons' Victory

WAFCON 2024: Madugu Acknowledges Zambia's Quality, Confident In Falcons' Victory

Sampson Adedeji

As the Super Falcons gear up for their quarter-final clash against Zambia, head coach Justin Madugu has acknowledged the strength of their opponents but remains confident in Nigeria’s chances of advancing, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The nine-time African champions will face the Copper Queens in the first quarter-final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations on Friday at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, Morocco.

Speaking ahead of the encounter, Madugu admitted Zambia's attacking prowess but emphasized that his team has prepared adequately to counter their threat.

“We’ve studied them closely and know their strengths. We have our strategies in place to neutralize their key threats. We respect their quality, but we are not intimidated,” Madugu said.

He stressed the importance of focus and adaptability as the tournament progresses.

“We’re in a good place. Our focus is on each match as it comes. If you want to win this competition, you must be ready to beat the best teams, including Zambia.”

Zambia defeated Nigeria in the third-place match of the 2022 edition, also hosted in Morocco.

However, the Super Falcons are aiming for redemption and a return to the top of African women’s football.