Justine Madugu insists Nigeria will treat Malawi with the same respect as every other opponent when the Super Falcons begin the defence of their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title on Tuesday.
Nigeria return to the tournament as defending champions after last year’s dramatic triumph over hosts Morocco, but Madugu is unwilling to allow that status breed complacency ahead of their opening Group D fixture at the Al Medina Stadium.
Speaking at Monday’s pre-match press conference in Rabat, the Super Falcons head coach said his players understand the responsibility that comes with arriving as holders, while stressing that the focus remains firmly on the first game rather than looking too far ahead.
“We have huge respect for all our opponents,” Madugu said.
“Every team that qualifies for this tournament deserves commendation and a lot of respect. Yes, they are debutants, but they are a very good side. We don’t take anything for granted. Everybody is coming here with a purpose and a mission, so you don’t undermine or underestimate what anybody can do.”
Madugu believes his side have done the necessary work in preparation for the tournament and is confident they are ready to begin another bid for continental glory.
“We are here for the defence of the WAFCON trophy and the team is fully ready and set to go. We will stick to our game plan and our mission.”
His caution is understandable though.
Although Malawi are appearing at the finals for the first time, they arrive with one of the continent’s most dangerous attacking pairings in sisters Tabitha and Temwa Chawinga. Their pace, movement and eye for goal have turned them into two of Africa’s biggest attacking threats, giving the Scorchers genuine belief they can test even the tournament favourites.
Nigeria, however, knows experience alone will count for little once the game gets underway. The Super Falcons watched hosts Morocco begin their campaign with an emphatic victory over Kenya on Sunday, a reminder that the competition promises to be fiercely contested from the opening round.
For Nigeria, though, the attention remains fixed on Tuesday night’s opener.
A positive result would not secure another WAFCON crown, but it would provide the ideal platform for a team determined to retain its place at the top of African women’s football yet again.
The game will kickoff at 9:00 pm WAT.
