Justin Madugu apologised to Nigerians after the Super Falcons failed to qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The team lost 2-1 to South Africa in a play-off match at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco on Thursday.
The result ended Nigeria’s unbroken record of appearing at every Women’s World Cup since the tournament began in 1991.
Madugu spoke to reporters after the match. He said the players gave their best effort on the pitch.
“First of all, I have to apologise to Nigerians over our inability to make it to the World Cup. It was not our intention,” Madugu stated.
“We came and did the best that we could, but our best was not good enough. We are very sorry for that, and we take full responsibility for everything that happened.”
He noted that Nigeria created chances but failed to convert them. Defensive errors also allowed South Africa to score.
Calls for Madugu’s dismissal grew after the defeat. However, the coach remained calm about his future.
“I am not afraid of being sacked. To the glory of God, I have served my country. It was a privilege that was given to me,” Madugu said.
He added that he had managed almost 28 games for the team. In that period the Super Falcons won 19 matches, lost four and drew four.
“This defeat came at crucial moments that people did not expect,” he explained.
Nigeria first missed an automatic World Cup place after a 1-0 quarter-final loss to Cameroon at the same tournament. The Super Falcons then entered the continental play-off against South Africa.
Thembi Kgatlana scored for South Africa in the 56th minute. Refiloe Jane added a second goal in the 77th minute. Nigeria managed only one reply.
Madugu accepted the outcome and pointed to the need for better finishing and tighter defending in future matches.
