Madugu hails team unity after Banyana scare News

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Madugu hails team unity after Banyana scare

By Daily Sports Nigeria on July 23, 2025

Nigeria’s head coach, Justine Madugu, has praised the unity and mental resilience of his players after the Super Falcons edged past South Africa 2–1 in a tense Women’s Africa Cup of Nations semi-final on Tuesday in Casablanca, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

Despite a nervy second half that saw Nigeria concede an equaliser from the penalty spot, the Falcons regrouped and found a dramatic late winner through Michelle Alozie’s lofted ball that earned a record 10th final appearance for the nine-time champions.

Reflecting on the emotionally charged encounter, Madugu revealed that the turning point came when the players managed to overcome their momentary loss of confidence following South Africa’s equaliser.

“The players’ morale was briefly shaken when we conceded, but they quickly regrouped, believed in themselves, and stayed focused,” he explained.

“We reminded them that the match isn’t over until the final whistle. Opportunities would still come, and we had to take them.”

Madugu, who is leading Nigeria to the final for the first time as head coach after previously serving as assistant, said it was not an easy game to manage from the touchline and admitted he was frustrated by how the game momentarily slipped from their grasp.

“At some point, we lost control and became careless, that was frustrating, but as a coach, you must stay composed and focus on encouraging your players, not adding to their pressure. We gathered them, reminded them of what was at stake, and they responded well.”

He added that the emotional scenes at the final whistle, when Rasheedat Ajibade broke down in tears and could not speak to the media, were a reflection of the match’s intensity and the impact of Gabriella Salgado’s injury late in the game.

“The game was intense, and when you work hard to achieve something and succeed, emotions overflow. Gabriella’s injury was painful. Everyone was concerned, even the opposing bench. We pray for her full recovery,” Madugu said.

The Falcons will be chasing a historic 10th WAFCON title when they step out in Rabat, buoyed by a semi-final performance that tested their mental toughness and unity under pressure.

Source Punch Ng

Posted July 23, 2025