Super Falcons Coach Addresses Monday Gift Omission

As the 13th edition of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) draws closer, Super Falcons head coach, Justin Madugu, has shed light on key decisions surrounding the team’s composition, including 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.

Strategic Blend of Youth and Experience

“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.”

Oshoala’s Return Explained

On the return of star striker Asisat Oshoala, who has missed recent national team outings, Madugu clarified that her absence was not due to attitude or performance.

“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.

Why Monday Gift Missed Out

One of the most discussed omissions was that of attacker Monday Gift. Coach 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.”

Choma Okafor’s Surprise Inclusion

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.

Debutants and Title Ambitions

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.”

“No Pressure, Just Focus”

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.

Sports247.ng