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Nigeria’s Justine Madugu named coach of the tournament at WAFCON 2024
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
Nigeria’s head coach, Justine Madugu has been named Coach of the Tournament at the 2024 CAF TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), following a triumphant campaign that saw the Super Falcons clinch a historic 10th continental title.
The 61-year-old tactician, re-appointed on an interim basis just months before the tournament, guided Nigeria through an unbeaten run to reclaim their place at the summit of African women’s football. The award caps a defining moment in Madugu’s career and a resounding endorsement of his leadership.
A seasoned figure within Nigeria’s women’s football structure, Madugu had previously served as assistant coach in the 2014, 2018, and 2022 WAFCON editions—winning two of them—and stepped in twice as interim head coach under former manager Randy Waldrum. His appointment in 2024 marked the Nigeria Football Federation’s vote of confidence in homegrown coaching talent, and he delivered with distinction.
Before WAFCON 2024, Madugu was relatively unknown on the global stage. Yet, in Morocco, he quickly proved his tactical pedigree. He constructed a disciplined, balanced side, seamlessly blending youth and experience, and integrating home-based players with overseas professionals.
Under his stewardship, the Super Falcons remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, conceded just three goal in six matches, defeated defending champions South Africa in the semifinals (2–1), and came from behind to beat hosts Morocco in the final beatig World Cup winning coach, Jorge Vilda in thw process.
His approach—combining defensive organization with attacking efficiency—was central to Nigeria’s “Mission X” campaign and their record-extending 10th WAFCON triumph.
Madugu’s résumé includes roles at several major international tournaments include 2020 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup (Trinidad & Tobago), 2008 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup (Chile), 2015 & 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cups,2015 All Africa Games (Gold medal), and 2019 WAFU-B Women’s Cup (Champions).
With continental silverware now secured, Madugu is widely expected to continue as head coach, leading Nigeria into the 2026 WAFCON title defense and the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
As Nigeria looks to advance beyond the Round of 16 at future World Cups, Madugu’s leadership represents a bold new era for the Super Falcons—one filled with renewed confidence and the pursuit of global success.
