Super Falcons manager Justine Madugu has revealed that his stay with Nigeria’s women’s national team has been extended, with the Nigeria Football Federation handing him a new two-year contract that will keep him in charge until October 2027.
The announcement came shortly after Nigeria confirmed qualification for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. The Falcons sealed their place in the tournament after a 1-1 result against Benin Republic in Abeokuta, a scoreline that was enough to complete a 3-1 aggregate success following their earlier 2-0 first-leg victory in Lome. Gossip News Now reports that the new contract reflects the federation’s confidence in Madugu as the team begins preparations for a bigger continental challenge.
Speaking after the game, the veteran coach disclosed that the deal officially runs from October 1, 2025, to October 1, 2027. While he welcomed the achievement of reaching the next WAFCON, he did not hide his disappointment with how the team performed in the return leg.
Madugu explained that the contest was always expected to be difficult because Benin approached it with seriousness and strong intent. Even so, he admitted the Super Falcons did not rise to the level many supporters had hoped for, offering an apology to Nigerians who expected both an impressive display and a convincing result from the former African champions.
Rather than dwell on the draw, the coach described the outcome as an important warning sign for the team. In his view, the match exposed weaknesses that must be addressed quickly before the 2026 WAFCON in Morocco, a competition that will carry even greater significance because it will also determine Africa’s representatives for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Nigeria had started brightly in the decisive qualifier, with Ashleigh Plumptre opening the scoring in the 12th minute from a corner delivered by Esther Okoronkwo. It was the defender’s first goal in national colours, but Benin later responded with an equaliser in the second half to ensure the hosts did not end the evening with a victory, even though qualification had already been secured.
Now, attention turns fully to the next phase of team development as Madugu and his technical crew look to sharpen the squad before the continental tournament kicks off from March 17 to April 3, 2026. The coming months are expected to be crucial as Nigeria seeks to build a more balanced side capable of matching expectations on the biggest stage.
Commentary and Analysis
Madugu’s contract extension suggests that the NFF is prioritising continuity in the Super Falcons setup despite concerns over the team’s recent performance level. Qualification was achieved, but the coach’s own reaction shows there is clear awareness that results alone may not be enough if the overall display remains inconsistent.
The draw against Benin could prove useful in the long run if it pushes the team to correct technical and tactical issues before WAFCON begins. For Nigeria, the tournament in Morocco will not only be about chasing another continental title, but also about protecting the country’s proud record in women’s football and securing a path to the 2027 Women’s World Cup.
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