“We’re Taking Nothing For Granted Against Benin” – Super Falcons Coach Madugu Says

27 Oct 2025, 12:13 by Ernest Victor · Naija News

Super Falcons head coach, Justine Madugu, says his team will stay focused and not get carried away by their first-leg advantage as they face the Amazons of Benin Republic in Tuesday’s 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Abeokuta.

Nigeria head into the return leg with a 2-0 cushion after goals from Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo secured victory in Lomé last Friday.

But Madugu insists the tie is far from over and has called on his players to maintain full concentration.

“We are looking forward to a tough game from the Beninoise, but we will be ready for that by putting up a good performance with the ultimate goal of qualification to the 2026 Women AFCON, where we hope to retain our title and further qualify for the World Cup in Brazil in 2027,” Madugu said in a statement released by the Nigeria Football Federation on Monday.

He cautioned against complacency, noting that the Benin side, which paraded several Europe-based players in the first leg, are capable of causing problems if given space.

“The Amazons with about 10 professional players from Germany, Morocco, France and Equatorial Guinea gave a good account of themselves in the first leg, to underscore the fact that underrating any team now in Africa could be at your own peril. We are not taking anything for granted or leaving anything to chance. We will be ready to go all out for victory,” he added.

The coach is expected to name a similar starting lineup to the one that got the job done in Lomé. Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie will likely retain her place behind a defensive line of Michelle Alozie, Osinachi Ohale, Tosin Demehin and Ashley Plumptre.

In midfield, captain Rasheedat Ajibade is expected to link up with Deborah Abiodun and Taiwo Afolabi, while Ihezuo, Okoronkwo and Folashade Ijamilusi could lead the attack once again.

Madugu may also call on experienced forward Asisat Oshoala, along with Joy Omewa and Kafayat Mafisere, to provide extra attacking firepower if needed.

The decisive match will be played at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta at 4 p.m. on Tuesday. The aggregate winner will qualify for the 14th edition of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, which will take place in Morocco from March 17 to April 3, 2026.

The Super Falcons resumed training in Abeokuta on Sunday as they look to extend their dominance on the continent and build momentum ahead of the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.