NFF makes Justine Madugu contract decision as Super Falcons qualify for 2026 WAFCON, eye World Cup

Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu has confirmed he has signed a new two-year contract extension with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), a deal that will keep him in charge of the women’s national team until October 2027, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 61-year-old tactician revealed the development shortly after guiding Nigeria to qualification for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), following a 1-1 draw with the Benin Republic at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta, on Tuesday.

The result secured a 3-1 aggregate victory for the 10-time African champions, ensuring their place in next year’s continental showpiece.

“I have been given a new contract from October 1, 2025 till October 1, 2027,” Madugu told journalists during his post-match press conference.

Madugu’s extension signals confidence from the NFF in his leadership and vision for the team as they set sights on defending their African crown and qualifying for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

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‘A wake-up call for the Falcons' – Justine Madugu

Despite sealing qualification, Madugu admitted his side’s performance fell below the high standards expected of the Super Falcons.

“The draw didn’t come as a surprise because we knew it was going to be a tough game. It was not going to be an easy game based on what we knew about the Beninoise team,” he said.

“However, I equally want to use this opportunity to apologise to Nigerians for not meeting their expectations. Each time the Super Falcons go out to play, there are always high expectations in terms of results and performance. Sometimes there can be off days, there can be bad days, and we want to consider today’s match from that perspective.”

Madugu described the 1-1 result as a “wake-up call”, noting that it exposed areas that require improvement before next year’s WAFCON.

“We are not too disappointed. We are taking it as a wake-up call for us to know that there’s more work to be done,” he added.

Defender Ashleigh Plumptre gave Nigeria the lead with a powerful header from Esther Okoronkwo’s corner in the 12th minute, her first-ever goal for the national team, before Benin levelled later in the match.

The draw, though uninspiring, was enough to confirm Nigeria’s place at the 2026 WAFCON, set to take place from March 17 to April 3.

Madugu yet to fully convince

Madugu, who replaced American coach Randy Waldrum, has endured mixed reviews since taking charge.

Waldrum had led the team to the 2022 WAFCON, the 2023 World Cup, and the 2024 Paris Olympics, leaving behind a strong squad and high expectations.

However, under Madugu’s watch, the Falcons reclaimed continental dominance, winning the 2024 WAFCON in Morocco, securing their record-extending tenth title.

That triumph has done little to silence critics who continue to question Madugu’s capacity and competence.

Still, Justine Madugu has earned a couple of historical recognitions. He became the first Nigerian coach ever nominated for the Ballon d’Or Female Coach of the Year, while also being shortlisted for CAF’s Coach of the Year (Women’s category).

Madugu remains the frontrunner for the CAF honour, with the winner expected to be announced in December.