Head coach of the Super Falcons, Justine Madugu, has cautioned his players against underrating the Amazons of Benin Republic ahead of their 2026 WAFCON qualifying clash.
The Falcons will face Benin in the first leg of the qualifier at the Stade de Kégué in Lomé on Friday (today), with the reverse fixture scheduled for the Moshood Abiola Sports Arena, Abeokuta, next Tuesday.
Speaking at a press conference in Lomé, Madugu said the team’s focus remains on victory while maintaining respect for their opponents.
“Each time we prepare for a game, the ultimate goal is to win. For us, this game is not different,” he said. “We are not taking anything for granted. We know this qualifier leads to the next WAFCON, and the next WAFCON leads to the World Cup. There’s no room for complacency.”
Madugu, who led Nigeria to a record-extending 10th WAFCON title in August, urged his players to focus on the future rather than past successes.
“For us, that is already history. It’s a new phase we are starting. We are carrying the motivation from the last tournament into this new challenge. It is our wish to retain the trophy and qualify for the World Cup,” he stated.
He added that Benin Republic deserve respect, noting that they earned their place in the qualifiers by defeating other teams.
“As far as we are concerned, they are reputable opponents,” Madugu said. “Some of their players feature abroad, and that’s why they must be given due respect.”
