Nigeria’s Justin Madugu has been honoured as the Coach of the Tournament at the 2024 TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), after guiding the Super Falcons to a record-extending 10th continental title in Morocco.
Madugu’s recognition caps off a memorable campaign that not only reaffirmed Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s football but also marked a breakthrough moment in his coaching career.
Appointed just months before the tournament in an interim role, the 61-year-old rose to the occasion and delivered a flawless title-winning run.
Before assuming the top job, Madugu had served as assistant coach during Nigeria’s past three WAFCON appearances—lifting the trophy under Edwin Okon in 2014, winning again under Thomas Dennerby in 2018, and finishing fourth in 2022 with Randy Waldrum.
He had also twice taken charge in an interim capacity under Waldrum, gaining vital experience along the way.
With the Nigeria Football Federation opting to back a homegrown tactician ahead of Morocco 2024, Madugu made the most of the opportunity.
The Adamawa-born coach blended seasoned internationals with promising young talent, creating a well-balanced and tactically astute squad.
His team was compact in defence, clinical in attack, and mentally resilient—qualities that defined their run to the title.
Under his leadership, Nigeria went unbeaten through the tournament, conceding just one goal.
Along the way, they dismantled Zambia 5-0 in the quarter final, edged past reigning champions South Africa 2-1 in the semi-final, and capped it all with a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over hosts Morocco in the final.
Madugu’s tactical brilliance—particularly his ability to adapt in high-pressure situations—was central to Nigeria’s “Mission X” campaign.
He managed every phase of the competition with calm authority and a clear vision, earning praise from players, analysts, and fans alike.
His coaching résumé already included stints at several major tournaments: the 2008 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Chile, the 2010 U-17 Women’s World Cup in Trinidad and Tobago, the 2015 and 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cups, and success with Nigeria’s gold-medal winning team at the 2015 All Africa Games and the 2019 WAFU-B Women’s Cup.
Now, with a WAFCON title under his belt, Madugu is expected to continue at the helm as Nigeria prepares to defend their crown in 2026 and launch a bold challenge at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
After back-to-back Round of 16 exits on the world stage, the Super Falcons under Madugu’s leadership look poised to reach new heights.