Nigeria’s female national team, Super Falcons’ coach, Justin Madugu, has brushed aside critical comments that continue trailing his squad’s performances at the ongoing Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, but says he is staying focused on how to win the trophy.
Sports247 reports that, despite the Falcons’ stunning 5-0 thumping of Zambia in Saturday’s quarter-finals fixture at Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca, many Nigerians are still not satisfied with the level of unity and blending that has been seen in the team.
Rather than take a swipe at his critics, Madugu stressed that the most important thing is to keep winning each game and stay focused until the trophy is won.
He also pointed out that, over the years, football coaches normally face critical comments from analysts, fans and administrators; hence, his ability to ignore such circumstances and concentrate on winning WAFCON 2024.
Madugu reiterated, “The coaching job is a thankless job, but you just have to stay focused. You must face the job because, no matter what you do, you will always face criticism I one area or the other. That’s why I just try to focus on what’s ahead of me.”
As the Falcons now get set to battle cup holders, South Africa in a potentially explosive semi-final fixture this Tuesday, Madugu is staying upbeat about his team’s chances of winning, as he believes they have improved with each game.
“I believe in what will happen, and I believe in what these girls can do. We are all seeing the results; the girls have done well. We will continue to work hard, and we will stay focused. Let’s all just watch and hope that they will lift the cup,” Madugu suggested.
