Coach Justin Madugu has stressed that Asisat Oshoala had always been an integral part of the Super falcons despite missing the team’s last set of friendly games.
Madugu said Oshoala was called up for the 13th Women’s African Cup of Nations fixed for Morocco because her talent has never been in doubt and was away from the team’s recent games because of her inability to secure her permit.
Shedding light on key decisions surrounding the team’s composition , Madugu defended the exclusion of forward Monday Gift, the return of Asisat Oshoala, and the inclusion of several debutants.
Speaking during a media parley before the team’s departure for their final preparation camp, Madugu emphasized the strategic approach behind his 24-woman squad selection.
Madugu said he has selected a blend of young and experienced players to cater for the present and future of the team and to ensure Nigeria have enough talents to call on at the WAFCON in Morocco.
“When you’re preparing a team for a tournament, you must consider the short, medium, and long-term objectives,” Madugu stated. “That’s why we’ve blended experienced players with younger ones. The senior players are expected to guide the newcomers, transferring knowledge and experience as they grow into the team.”
On the return of star striker Oshoala, who has missed recent national team outings, Madugu clarified that her absence was not due to attitude or performance.
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“It’s not that we didn’t want her or that she wasn’t willing to play. There were permit issues that prevented her from joining us. Asisat brings a lot to the table, and we’re confident she still has much to offer Nigeria,” he noted.
One of the most discussed omissions was that of attacker Monday Gift. Madugu described the decision as difficult but necessary.
“These players are all national assets. Leaving anyone out is painful. However, CAF regulations limit the number of players we can take,” he explained. “We carried out detailed analysis across all positions—assessing strengths, weaknesses, and flexibility. It’s not just Gift; there were others we would have loved to include too.”
Also turning heads was the surprise call-up of Choma Okafor from the University of Connecticut. Madugu described her as a calculated addition to the squad.
“We’ve been monitoring her closely through match footage and analysis. Players like her can be surprise packages—unknown to opponents and useful tactically. She has potential, and we believe she will contribute positively,” he said.
With 11 WAFCON debutants in the squad, Madugu acknowledged comparisons to past Nigerian coaches who led similar transitions and achieved success. He reaffirmed his confidence in the team’s readiness and his aim to deliver a record-extending 10th title.
“We’re fully aware of our mission—‘La Decima’ or as popularly called here, ‘Mission X’. That’s the goal: to win our 10th WAFCON title and bring it back home,” he declared. “This isn’t just about us as a team; it’s also a statement for indigenous coaches. A strong performance could open more doors for local coaches in the future.”
Amid high expectations, Madugu insists he is staying grounded and focused.
“I’m not distracted by anything. We remain focused on the task ahead. Stories will fly, distractions will come, but we won’t let them derail us.”
The Super Falcons, nine-time champions of the tournament, will begin their quest for a historic 10th title when the 2025 WAFCON kicks off in Morocco next month.
