Coach Madugu Speaks on Monday Gift Snub: “Tough Choices Had to Be Made” Ahead of 2024 WAFCON

Head coach of the Super Falcons, Justine Madugu, has come under fire following his decision to omit in-form striker Monday Gift from Nigeria’s final squad list for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

The decision, announced last Friday, sparked confusion among fans and analysts alike, especially considering Monday’s blazing form at her new club, Washington Spirit, in the U.S. National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).

Since her move from Spain’s UD Tenerife in March, the 23-year-old forward—who started her career at FC Robo Queens—has bagged four goals and one assist in just nine league matches. Her pace, attacking instinct, and versatility have earned her praise in the States, making her absence from the final 24-player list a major talking point.

🗣️ Madugu Responds: "It’s Not Just Gift"

Speaking at a media parley in Abuja, Madugu defended his selection process, insisting that tough decisions had to be made due to CAF’s squad size restrictions.

“These players are all national assets. Leaving anyone out is painful,” he said.
“We carried out detailed analysis across all positions — assessing strengths, weaknesses, and flexibility. It’s not just Gift; there were others we would have loved to include too.”

Despite the backlash, Madugu remains firm in his stance, stressing that the final squad was chosen with team balance and tactical needs in mind.

💬 Our Take: Did Nigeria Drop the Ball?

There's no denying that Monday Gift is one of the brightest Nigerian talents currently making waves abroad. At just 23, she’s adapting rapidly to the demands of top-flight football in the U.S.—arguably the most competitive women’s league in the world. Excluding her at a time when her confidence is sky-high feels like a missed opportunity.

While the coach’s explanation about squad size limitations is valid, fans have every right to question whether the selection truly reflects form over favoritism. If national team call-ups aren’t based on current performance, what message does that send to hardworking players abroad?

🔜 What’s Next?

The Super Falcons will face Portugal in a friendly match on Monday night, followed by a clash against Ghana’s Black Queens on Friday. These games will be crucial in gauging the team’s readiness for WAFCON 2024, and whether Madugu’s squad choices will justify the exclusion of key talents like Gift.

💬 Do you think Monday Gift deserved a place in the final WAFCON squad? Was this a tactical choice or a misjudgment? Let us know your thoughts below!

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