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Simphiwe Dludlu: Former South Africa captain doubts Super Falcons WAFCON title credentials
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
Former South Africa captain Simphiwe Dludlu in a recent interview on Lagos Talks FM remarks ahead of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) quarter-finals have stirred conversation across the continent, particularly regarding the Super Falcons of Nigeria and their fading dominance.
Dludlu’s core points challenge long-standing assumptions:
Key Criticisms:
The Gap Has Closed
Dludlu argues that Nigeria no longer holds a unique advantage in exporting talent to Europe. Other African nations — like South Africa, Zambia, and Morocco — now boast players in top leagues too.
Inconsistency in Major Tournaments
She highlighted Nigeria’s underwhelming recent performances:
Lost to South Africa in 2018 group stage (though they won the final).
Failed to make the podium in WAFCON 2022.
Lack of Fear Factor: The once-intimidating aura around the Super Falcons seems to be fading. Dludlu cites the narrow 1–0 win over Botswana as evidence of vulnerability.
Questionable Team Cohesion: She questions the tactical clarity and cohesion under current coach Justin Madugu.
Nigeria’s Credentials: Still Contenders?
Despite Dludlu’s doubts, Nigeria remains a tournament heavyweight:
Record 9-time champions.
A mix of experienced internationals (e.g. Asisat Oshoala) and rising stars.
Still viewed as one of the favourites to win — alongside South Africa, Ghana, and Zambia.
Quarter-Final Clash: Nigeria vs Zambia
The Super Falcons face a tough test against Zambia’s Copper Queens on Friday at Larbi Zaouli Stadium, Casablanca. Zambia, led by Barbra Banda, has grown significantly in recent years, qualifying for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and now emerging as serious WAFCON contenders.
Implications
Dludlu’s critique, though pointed, might serve a dual purpose:
Reality check for a Nigerian side in transition.
Motivation for the squad to reassert their dominance and prove critics wrong.
Do you think Nigeria will rise to the occasion against Zambia and go all the way, or is this truly a turning point in African women’s football?
