Super Falcons coach Justin Madugu has confirmed he will make changes to the team’s line-up ahead of their final Group B game against Algeria on Sunday.
Having already secured qualification for the quarterfinals of the ongoing Women’s Africa Cup of Nations with a game to spare after their narrow 1-0 win over Botswana on Thursday, Madugu revealed that some players who started the first two matches will be rested, giving opportunities to fresh faces in the squad.
The coach had maintained the same formation and largely similar substitutions in the opening two games, mirroring his approach against Tunisia in their first match.
One player certain to miss the clash against Algeria is combative midfielder Deborah Abiodun, who is suspended after picking up yellow cards in each of the first two games.
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Madugu explained that with the team already through to the knockout stages, it is important to rotate the squad to allow some players to rest and recover fully.
“We are quite aware that Deborah (Abiodun) has two yellow cards and will miss the next game, but since we’ve already qualified, it gives others a chance to play in the same formation and show what they can contribute,” Madugu said.
“Certainly, we will make some changes against Algeria. That doesn’t mean we’re fielding a weak team, all the players here are capable of playing every match.
“Obviously, we have to manage our players properly because we’re looking at playing six games in total. So it’s important to give some of them time to rest and recuperate,” he added.
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