TD The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has sacked Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu and members of his technical crew following the team’s disappointing campaign at the recently concluded 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The decision was taken by the NFF Executive Committee after the nine-time African champions were eliminated at the quarter-final stage of the tournament in Morocco.
The setback was compounded by Nigeria’s failure to secure automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup after the Super Falcons lost to South Africa in their playoff qualifier.
The federation confirmed the coaching changes in a brief statement published on its official X account.
It directed Madugu and the other members of the technical crew to step down with immediate effect.
“The Executive Committee of the Nigeria Football Federation has asked members of the technical crew of the @NGSuper_Falcons to step down with immediate effect,” the NFF stated.
Streak of Poor Performances
NFF dismissal of Madugu comes just months after he led the Super Falcons to their 10th WAFCON title.
The triumph had strengthened his position as head coach.
However, Nigeria’s defence of the continental title was marked by underwhelming performances.
Also on the top burner are concerns over preparations and reported internal incidents within the team.
The Falcons’ quarter-final exit ultimately ended their hopes of retaining the continental crown.
Meanwhile, the subsequent defeat to South Africa further heightened pressure on the coaching staff.
NFF Begins Search for New Coach
Madugu was initially appointed interim head coach of the Super Falcons in September 2024.
He later secured a two-year contract in October 2025 following his successful campaign with the team.
His tenure therefore ends after approximately two years in charge of Nigeria’s senior women’s national team.
The NFF is now expected to begin the process of appointing a new coaching team.
In the meantime, the Super Falcons seek to rebuild ahead of their upcoming international engagements.
They also need to recover from the disappointment of missing out on automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The federation has yet to announce Madugu’s replacement or provide further details on the composition of the next technical crew.
