Super Falcons coach Justine Madugu faces a selection dilemma ahead of Nigeria’s second friendly against Senegal at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne on Monday (today), with several players staking strong claims for places in the squad for the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, PUNCH Sports Extra reports. Following a tepid showing in the first meeting between both teams last Friday, Madugu admitted he has a “good headache” on his hands as he weighs his options of rotation, stressing the importance of versatile players and squad depth as the defending champions intensify preparations for the continental tournament. Nigeria beat their visitors 2-1 in the first of the two friendlies on Friday, a result that raised questions about the readiness of the 10-time African champions as they prepare to defend their title at the 2025 WAFCON in Morocco next month. First-half goals from Asisat Oshoala, who scored from the penalty spot, and midfielder Toni Payne earned the Falcons victory on Friday, with the Lionesses pulling one back four minutes from time. Ahead of today’s clash, Madugu is considering giving more players the opportunity to feature in what will be the team’s last organised friendly before heading into their final preparations. “For us, it is not just about winning. We are analysing the performances of the players and looking at what we hope to do when we get into the competition. The options we want to try in the competition are what we are really more concerned about,” Madugu told our correspondent after the game. “Winning is important because it boosts the morale of the players and the team generally, but for us, it is not the ultimate. Just as they’ve seen us, we have also watched them. “We are trying as much as possible to ensure that most of the players in camp get some playing time so we can see what they can do. Sometimes you don’t need to play 90 minutes to convince us that you have something to offer.” Related News Ogbu to undergo scan after injury Madugu admits Falcons must improve Payne happy to end five-year Falcons drought Despite being open to testing more players, the coach is not slacking on the qualities he needs ahead of his final camp. “Every player in the team is important. They all have their roles to play and are aware that these preparatory games will determine who makes it to the WAFCON squad. Nobody is taking this opportunity lightly, and it is up to them to prove themselves,” Madugu said during the post-match press conference. “As defending champions, there will be a lot of focus on us. We must develop options to vary our play, and when you have utility players, it makes things more challenging for the opposition. That is a good headache for us as well. We are looking out for players who can play in different positions because you need to have those options and be ready at any point.” On Friday, the coach started Portsmouth Ladies goalkeeper Comfort Erhabor ahead of the more established Chiamaka Nnadozie and Rivers Angels’ Anderline Mgbechi. Madugu also made a number of changes in the second half, with players such as Rofiat Imuran, Joy Omewa and Blessing Nkor getting minutes, while Washington Spirit striker Gift Monday, Turkey-based Kafayat Shittu, Omorinsola Babajide and a few others remained unused substitutes. Those players will hope to get their opportunities today ahead of the final call-ups for the team’s last training camp before the WAFCON kicks off on July 25 and runs until August 16. In Morocco, the Falcons, who are chasing a record-extending 11th title, will face Egypt, Zambia and debutants Malawi in Group C, while Senegal will take on hosts Morocco, Algeria and Kenya in Group A. This year’s tournament will also serve as the qualifying competition for next year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup, with the top four teams qualifying directly for Brazil, while the fifth-placed team will enter an intercontinental playoff tournament for a chance to reach the finals.
