WAFCON 2024: Falcons Aim To Halt Bayana’s Unbeaten Run

Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu has declared that his side is ready to end South Africa’s seven-year unbeaten run in regulation time at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), as the two powerhouses clash in Tuesday’s highly anticipated semifinal in Casablanca, Morocco.

Speaking during the pre-match press conference on Monday in Casablanca, Madugu expressed confidence in the preparedness and mindset of his players ahead of the titanic battle against defending champions Banyana Banyana.

“South Africa have not lost a game within regulation time since 2018. But records are meant to be broken,” Madugu said. “No matter how long it takes, one day it will be broken. And we are hoping that by tomorrow, by the grace of God, that record will no longer exist.”

South Africa come into the semifinal on the back of a dramatic penalty shootout win over Senegal, extending their unbeaten run in WAFCON regulation time to 14 matches. However, Madugu believes his team has what it takes to halt that streak.

“The preparations are good, the girls have been very committed, determined, they are in good shape, and they are well prepared,” he noted.

The clash at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, Morocco, will mark Nigeria’s fifth match at the same venue in this tournament — a familiarity Madugu considers a potential advantage.

“It’s a good thing that we are familiar with the environment and it places us at an advantage… But then, when it comes to football games these days, home advantage does not really count,” he cautioned.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s recent victory over South Africa in the Olympic qualifiers, Madugu was quick to warn that past success doesn’t guarantee future results.

“It does not mean that it is an automatic thing for us. We must work hard for the victory that we desire. Every game is different. They will be favourites as defending champions. They took the crown from us; we want to do the same.”

He also acknowledged the quality of the South Africa’s Banyana Banyana side.

“They have a very good team… Football games can be very deceiving sometimes. You don’t judge teams based on what you see. Every game comes with a change.”

Emphasizing the team’s collective strength, Madugu reiterated that Nigeria’s success is built on unity, not individuals.

“We don’t build a team around an individual… In case that individual does not come to the party on the game day, then what happens? Let’s play together as a team. So that even when one is out, whoever comes in fits in and the game continues.”

Nigeria boasts the most successful record in WAFCON history, with nine titles and just one semifinal defeat — which came at the hands of South Africa’s team. Madugu hopes the legacy and pride of the Super Falcons will drive them to another final.

“I pray that trend continues. So, if the trend continues, automatically it means we are winning back the trophy this time around,” he said. “This six is with Ws, and you know what the Ws mean. So, we are doing our best.”

Addressing the pressure of the occasion, Madugu remained composed: “With every game there will always be pressure… But we are managing ourselves well. We want to remain focused. The girls are fully focused and we all know what is at stake.”

The semifinal clash kicks off at 5:00 PM (Nigerian time) at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, Morocco.

Sports247.ng