Madugu Calls Coaching a 'Thankless Job' as Super Falcons Face Criticism

Posted : 08 August 2026

Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu has described coaching as a "thankless job" while responding to the criticism he has faced during Nigeria's campaign at the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations.

Madugu acknowledged that criticism is unavoidable in football and said supporters, journalists and other observers have the right to their opinions. He stressed that his focus remains on improving the team rather than allowing outside pressure to influence his decisions.

"I cannot stop criticisms. It's the nature of the job, you cannot please everybody," Madugu told reporters in Morocco. "Everybody looks at the game from a different perspective and they have their own interpretations."

The coach said he does not dismiss negative feedback outright. Instead, he believes coaches should examine criticism and identify useful points that could help improve the team's performances.

"We're all human beings, even we as coaches make mistakes. So when you make mistakes and then you realize that, no, I didn't do this thing well, the onus is on you to own up and then try to get it better the next time," he said.

Madugu also pointed out that criticism can come from within the squad. Players who are left out of the starting lineup may also disagree with his decisions, adding another layer of pressure to the role.

"It's a thankless job. You cannot please everybody, even your players. Anybody that does not play is not happy that I am not playing," he explained.

The Super Falcons coach insisted that neither he nor his technical staff would deliberately make decisions that could damage Nigeria's chances of success. He argued that everyone involved with the team benefits when the Super Falcons perform well and win matches.

"We are the principal beneficiaries when a team wins. So why would you jeopardize your joy that you have done well?" Madugu said.

He also called for greater patience from supporters when players struggle during matches. According to the coach, even players who have been performing well can experience an off day and should not be harshly judged because of one poor performance.

"You have to find out what went wrong and then try to find a solution to it. But we'll continue to do our best. We'll continue to do our best and make the team better," Madugu added.

Madugu's comments come as Nigeria continue their pursuit of another major continental title. The coach will now expect his players to maintain their focus while the technical staff works to address weaknesses and prepare the team for the challenges ahead.

Madugu Calls Coaching a 'Thankless Job' as Super Falcons Face Criticism

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