Justin Madugu has accepted responsibility for the Super Falcons’ failure to qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup but insists he is not worried about losing his position as head coach.

Nigeria’s hopes of appearing at the tournament ended after the Falcons suffered a 2-1 defeat to South Africa in the qualifying playoffs.

The setback carries historic significance, as Nigeria will miss the Women’s World Cup for the first time since the competition began in 1991.

Speaking after the match, Madugu apologised to Nigerians and acknowledged that the team’s performance was not enough to secure qualification.

He said the players and coaching staff had given their best but admitted that their efforts ultimately fell short.

Addressing speculation about his future, the coach said he would accept whatever decision the relevant authorities make.

Madugu described his time in charge of the national team as a privilege and maintained that he was proud to have served the country.

The coach pointed to missed opportunities and defensive lapses as key factors behind the defeat. According to him, Nigeria created enough chances to have taken control of the match, particularly during the first half, but failed to convert them.

Madugu also suggested that complacency or overconfidence may have contributed to some of the mistakes that allowed South Africa to score.

He noted that the Falcons had been creating opportunities but lacked the required sharpness in front of goal. South Africa, in contrast, made better use of the chances available to them.

Madugu’s record of 19 wins, four defeats and four draws from almost 28 matches was also highlighted, but the failure to qualify has placed his position under intense scrutiny.