Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu has expressed regret over her team’s poor performance at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

The ten-time African champions were knocked out in the quarter-finals by Cameroon’s Indomitable Lionesses.

Nigeria also missed out on qualifying for the inter-confederation playoffs after a 2-1 defeat to their arch-rivals, Cameroon.

This marks the first time since 1991 that the Super Falcons will not participate in the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Madugu stated that her players showed dedication on the field.

She also took full accountability for the team’s failure in the tournament.

“First of all, I have to apologise to Nigerians over our inability to make it to the World Cup. It was not our intention.

“We came and did the best that we could, but our best was not good enough. We are very sorry for that, and we take full responsibility for everything that happened,” Madugu told reporters after the game against South Africa.

Madugu’s position has come under increasing scrutiny, with several calls for his dismissal following the Super Falcons’ poor showing.

The experienced tactician, however, remains unconcerned about his future, insisting he is not worried about the possibility of being sacked by his employers.

“I am not afraid of being sacked. To the glory of God, I have served my country. It was a privilege that was given to me,” Madugu added.

“So far, I have played almost 28 games, won 19, lost four and drawn four. But this defeat came at crucial moments that people did not expect.”

ASA