‘Only Players With Hunger Will Play’ — Madugu Demands 100% as Falcons Face South Africa in World Cup Playoff
The Super Falcons face perhaps their most important test of the campaign when they take on South Africa on Thursday in Casablanca, with a place in the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup Intercontinental Playoffs at stake.
For Nigeria coach Justin Madugu, there will be no room for passengers.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference on Wednesday, Madugu delivered a firm message to his squad, declaring that only players prepared to fight for the result will make his starting XI.
“Only players with hunger will play tomorrow. I want to assure Nigerians that the players that will be out there tomorrow will give their 100 percent.”
The statement underlines the intensity surrounding the encounter as the Falcons look to respond after the disappointment of their WAFCON campaign.
Madugu has also explained the thinking behind his squad rotation, stressing that international coaches have limited time to impose their philosophy compared with club managers.
“We have rotated the team because we have to, as the time with the national team is always short unlike the club sides,” he said.
The coach pointed to the limited number of FIFA windows and friendly matches available to national teams, arguing that competitive games provide valuable opportunities to assess players who understand his tactical demands and possess the right mentality.
And against South Africa, that mentality could be decisive.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade acknowledged that the WAFCON setback was painful, particularly for a team defending its continental title, but insisted the Falcons have moved on.
“As a champion, it’s more painful, but we’ve put that behind us and we are focused on tomorrow’s game.”
Ajibade believes the Falcons have the quality and determination to produce the response required.
“We are ready to give our best and get the needed result,” she added.
South Africa stand between Nigeria and the next stage of the World Cup qualification journey, and the Falcons will need discipline, intensity and composure to overcome their rivals.
Madugu has already set the standard: hunger, 100 percent commitment and mental readiness.
