WAFCON 2024: Algeria Stops Nigeria… Madugu Apologizes for Outcome in Casablanca

‎Justin Madugu eight changes to his starting XI against Algeria in Nigeria’s final group B match at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, Sunday, in Casablanca.‎
‎The Super Falcons head coach rested senior players including Asisat Oshoala, Ashleigh Plumptre, Toni Payne and co., a clear indication he had soft-pedaled having already advanced to the last eight.
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‎Nigeria registered 24 shots on the night, a shooting practice that produced no goals in the stalemate and Madugu offered apologies in his post-match presser.
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‎’I want to apologize to our dear country men and women because I know the expectation is to always win, we did everything we could to win but it did not turn out so. We assure that in our subsequent games we will improve,’ the coach offered.
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‎Meanwhile, it was a big night for Algeria as they achieved their best performance in the tournament yet, reaching the quarterfinals for the first time.
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‎Farid Benstiti guided the Fennecs to a second place finish in the group with 5 points.
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‎The Algériens defended valiantly to starve off Nigeria’s attack, limiting the Nigerians to just two shots on goal.
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‎Benstiti had previously faced Nigeria twice in two international friendlies last year, where his team conceded six teams.
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‎Since then team has seen some improvement and at this WAFCON, they’re yet to concede a goal – after three games.
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‎The quarterfinal bracket will be complete on Monday night, but Nigeria already know their last eight opponent.
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‎Nigeria will face off against Zambia, who finished as runners up in group A behind host nation Morocco – albeit only by goals difference.
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‎It will be a repeat of the 2022 WAFCON third place match at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca.
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‎This fixture will hold on July 17 at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.