Justine Madugu affirms Super Falcons’ rebuilding process

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

The head coach of Nigeria’s senior women’s national team, Justine Madugu, said his team is undergoing a rebuilding process after a 2-0 win against Algeria on Saturday.

Two exquisite first-half strikes by captain Rasheedat Ajibade in Ikenne-Remo earned nine-time African champions Nigeria victory over visiting Algeria in the first of two international friendly matches between both countries.

First, Ajibade galloped past an unsuspecting rearguard of the Green Ladies and heaved the ball over and above the advancing goalkeeper Amel Salah for Nigeria’s first goal in the 24th minute, following a good pass by defender Oluwatosin Demehin.

Then, just before the half-time whistle of referee Christelle Ligan, the Spain-based attacking midfielder collected the ball from Folashade Ijamilusi as Nigeria broke forward, and unleashed a rocket from 22 yards that flew straight into the top corner, ignoring goalkeeper Salah’s tame attempt at stopping it.

“We are on a rebuilding process and I must say that a good number of the home-based professionals impressed me,” Madugu said after the match.

”Ajibade, as always, led from the front and gave us great balance going forward.

“Now, we are looking forward to the encounter on Tuesday to build on what we have been able to do here.”

Both sides will meet again at the same venue in the second match on Tuesday, October 29, 2024.

The two teams are using the two-legged friendly match to prepare for upcoming tournaments, especially the 20254 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) taking place next year.