2026 WAFCON Qualifiers: Our goal is to beat Benin on Friday – Super Falcons coach Justin Madugu

Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu has made it clear that Nigeria’s only objective is victory as they prepare to take on Benin Republic in their final 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match on Friday.

Speaking during his pre-match press conference at the Togo Football Association Headquarters, Madugu said the team’s mentality remains unchanged and firmly rooted in their desire to win.

According to him, every match comes with the same mindset – compete, dominate, and secure maximum points.

Madugu stressed that the Falcons are fully aware of the stakes as this qualifier not only determines their place at the next WAFCON but also forms a crucial step towards securing a ticket to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

He warned that there is no room for complacency and assured fans that the team is treating the match with absolute seriousness, regardless of the perceived strength of their opponent.

“We are not taking anything for granted. We are fully aware that this qualifier leads you to the next WAFCON and the next WAFCON leads you to the World Cup. We are fully aware of that and that’s why we are not taking anything for chance. There’s no room for complacency,” the coach said at his pre-match conference.

The coach dismissed any suggestions of overconfidence following Nigeria’s historic 10th WAFCON triumph earlier this year in Morocco.

He stated that the team has already moved on from that achievement and is focused on writing a new chapter.

He explained that the success in Morocco serves only as motivation for the challenges ahead and not a reason to relax.

Madugu concluded by acknowledging the quality of the Benin team and calling for maximum concentration.