Super Falcons celebrates reaching the WAFCON finals
Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu says Nigeria are fully focused and determined to reclaim the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title as they prepare to face hosts Morocco in Saturday’s final in Rabat.
The nine-time champions booked their place in the final of the 13th WAFCON with a dramatic 1-0 semi-final win over defending champions South Africa, thanks to a stoppage-time wonder goal by defender Michelle Alozie.
Speaking ahead of the much-anticipated final, Madugu said the team’s mindset is firmly set on one thing: winning the title.
“We thank God for making it to the final. I want to assure you that we are not going to relent or take our eyes off the ball. Our focus is on lifting the trophy in Rabat on Saturday,” Madugu said.
Madugu praised his team’s tactical discipline and resilience, particularly in overcoming a tough Banyana Banyana side.
“We knew South Africa, as Cup holders, would be difficult, but we were ready for them. I’m glad our tactics paid off,” he added.
“As I said before the tournament, we assess every opposition and choose the best approach that suits our objective. That has worked well for us in all five games so far, and we’ll do the same in the final.”
Nigeria will face Morocco at the 60,000-capacity Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Saturday at 9pm, in what has been described as the biggest fixture of the tournament.
The Super Falcons have been dominant throughout the tournament, scoring 11 goals and conceding just once, a penalty from South Africa’s Linda Motlhalo in the semi-final.
Saturday’s final marks Nigeria’s second meeting with a host nation in a major final in just 17 months, following the Super Eagles’ AFCON showdown with Ivory Coast in February 2024. (BusinessDay)
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