Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu has admitted he is concerned by his side’s recent defensive performances as Nigeria prepares for Sunday’s quarter-final against Cameroon at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The nine-time African champions have conceded five goals in three group-stage matches, letting in three during their 3-2 defeat to Malawi before conceding twice in a 6-2 victory over Egypt.
Speaking after the win over Egypt, Madugu acknowledged that several of the goals conceded were preventable and said addressing the team’s defensive shortcomings had become a priority ahead of the knockout stage.
He noted that Nigeria had traditionally been a defensively disciplined side but admitted the recent pattern of conceding avoidable goals was a source of concern.
According to the coach, the team must eliminate lapses in concentration and reduce the mistakes that have allowed opponents to score.
Madugu said the technical crew would work closely with the players to improve their defensive organisation before the meeting with the Indomitable Lionesses.
Looking ahead to the quarter-final, the coach described Cameroon as a formidable opponent, recalling that both sides shared victories in a two-match friendly series before the tournament.
Nigeria lost the first encounter before winning the return leg, but Madugu stressed that those results would have little bearing on Sunday’s contest.
He said his players were fully aware of the challenge posed by Cameroon and would approach the match with the necessary focus and preparation.
The Super Falcons progressed to the last eight after finishing second in Group C, where Nigeria, Malawi and Zambia all ended the group stage on six points.
Malawi claimed top spot after tie-breakers were applied, with Nigeria taking second place, while Zambia were eliminated based on goals scored in matches involving the three tied teams.
Nigeria will face Cameroon at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, with a place in the semi-finals and qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil at stake.
