Super Falcons head coach, Justin Madugu, has confirmed that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has extended his contract for another two years, keeping him in charge of the national women’s team until October 2027.
Madugu made the announcement during a post-match press conference in Abeokuta, shortly after guiding the nine-time African champions to qualification for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The Super Falcons sealed their qualification with a 3–1 aggregate victory over Benin Republic, following a 1–1 draw in the return leg.
“I have been given a new contract from October 1, 2025, to October 1, 2027,” Madugu revealed.
The 61-year-old coach, who led Nigeria to a record 10th WAFCON title earlier this year, expressed mixed feelings about his team’s performance despite their progress.
“The draw didn’t come as a surprise. We knew it would be a tough game because of how well-organized the Beninoise team is,” he said.
Madugu also took a moment to apologise to fans, and acknowledged that the team’s display fell short of expectations.
“I want to apologise to Nigerians for not meeting their expectations. Every time the Super Falcons play, there’s always a lot expected from us. Sometimes, though, you have off days, and today was one of those,” he added.
In the match, Ashleigh Plumptre opened the scoring for Nigeria in the 12th minute, heading home Esther Okoronkwo’s corner for her first-ever goal with the national team. Benin Republic equalised early in the second half but couldn’t find a winner.
Despite the draw, the result was enough to send Nigeria through to the 2026 WAFCON, scheduled to take place from March 17 to April 3, 2026.
