Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu has expressed his delight after guiding Nigeria to the final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), Soccernet.ng reports.
The 61-year-old tactician has vowed that his team will stay focused and fight to lift the trophy in Rabat on Saturday night.
Nigeria defeated defending champions South Africa 2-1 in a gripping semifinal encounter on Tuesday in Casablanca to secure a highly anticipated final clash with tournament hosts Morocco.
Madugu Blows Hot Ahead Of Super Falcons vs Morocco Clash
Speaking to NFF Communications, Madugu praised his team’s tactical discipline and determination, while also attributing their success to divine grace.
“We thank God for making it to the final,” he said. “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.”
The coach acknowledged the threat posed by Banyana Banyana but revealed that his side’s game plan worked to perfection.
“We knew South Africa, as Cup holders, would be difficult but we were ready for them. I am glad that our tactics paid off. As I said before the tournament, we will always assess the opposition first and then determine what tactics would suit us better and serve our purpose. We have done these in our previous five games, and we will do the same in the final.”
When Will Super Falcons Face Morocco?
Nigeria will now face hosts Morocco in Saturday’s final at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, with kickoff set for 9 p.m. local time.
The encounter marks the second time in just 17 months that a Nigerian national team will face a host nation in a major continental final.
Last year, the Super Eagles squared off against Côte d’Ivoire in the final of the men’s AFCON, also after overcoming South Africa in the semifinals.
The Super Falcons are chasing a record-extending 10th WAFCON title and will look to continue their unbeaten run in the tournament when they face the Atlas Lionesses in front of a home crowd.