Madugu faces selection headache as Falcons intensify WAFCON prep

Super Falcons coach Justine Madugu is grappling with a significant selection headache as Nigeria intensifies preparations for the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). The dilemma stems from several players making strong cases for inclusion in the squad, particularly ahead of the team's second friendly against Senegal.

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For us, it is not just about winning. We are analysing the performances of the players and looking at what we hope to do when we get into the competition. The options we want to try in the competition are what we are really more concerned about.

Following a somewhat unconvincing 2-1 victory over Senegal in their first friendly, Madugu acknowledged the challenge. He emphasized the importance of versatile players and squad depth as the defending champions prepare to defend their title in Morocco next month. The first friendly saw goals from Asisat Oshoala and Toni Payne, but Senegal managed to pull one back late in the game, prompting scrutiny of the team's overall readiness.

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Winning is important because it boosts the morale of the players and the team generally, but for us, it is not the ultimate. Just as they’ve seen us, we have also watched them.

Madugu stated that his primary focus is on analyzing player performances and identifying tactical options for the competition, rather than solely on winning friendlies. He aims to give more players an opportunity to feature in the upcoming match, which serves as the team's final organized friendly before their final preparations commence. "Winning is important because it boosts the morale of the players and the team generally, but for us, it is not the ultimate," Madugu explained.

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Every player in the team is important. They all have their roles to play and are aware that these preparatory games will determine who makes it to the WAFCON squad. Nobody is taking this opportunity lightly, and it is up to them to prove themselves.

The coach is keen to assess players who can contribute effectively even without playing full matches. He stressed that every player is crucial and understands that these preparatory games are decisive for WAFCON squad selection. Madugu is particularly looking for players who can operate in multiple positions, believing this versatility will pose challenges for opposing teams. "We are looking out for players who can play in different positions because you need to have those options and be ready at any point," he added. The coach also experimented with different goalkeepers, starting Comfort Erhabor ahead of more established options like Chiamaka Nnadozie.

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As defending champions, there will be a lot of focus on us. We must develop options to vary our play, and when you have utility players, it makes things more challenging for the opposition. That is a good headache for us as well. We are looking out for players who can play in different positions because you need to have those options and be ready at any point.