Justin Madugu has refused to make Michelle Alozie the scapegoat for Nigeria’s shock defeat to Malawi, with the Super Falcons coach insisting his tactical decisions were not responsible for one of the biggest upsets in Women’s Africa Cup of Nations history, Footynaija.com reports.
The defending champions suffered a stunning 3-2 loss to the tournament debutants after Temwa Chawinga struck twice and captain Tabitha Chawinga also found the net. It was a result few saw coming, and one that has left Nigeria with little margin for error ahead of a crucial meeting with Zambia.
Much of the post-match debate has centred on Madugu’s team selection. Michelle Alozie started at left-back instead of her more familiar role, while other players were also asked to operate in different positions.
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The criticism gathered pace because Madugu had spent much of Nigeria’s build-up to the tournament experimenting with different systems and encouraging versatile players to adapt to multiple roles.
The 62-year-old had repeatedly described those changes as part of his long-term plan for the Super Falcons rather than short-term fixes.
Speaking after Tuesday’s defeat, Premium Times reports that the coach believes the reaction would have been very different had Nigeria won.
“When things like this happen, everybody has their opinion. Everybody is entitled to say whatever they say.
“If we had won, the comments people would be making would not be the same.”
Madugu also defended his decision to deploy Alozie at left-back, pointing to Ashley Plumptre’s successful spell in the same position during the previous WAFCON despite not playing there regularly at club level.
The coach revealed that defensive issues within the squad influenced his selection and insisted Alozie performed well.
“We had some challenges in defence, and even from where Michelle played today, I think she needs to be commended and appreciated because she gave it all.
“The mistake didn’t come from her position.”
Even so, Madugu accepted responsibility for the defeat and admitted the coaching staff must correct the mistakes that cost Nigeria against Malawi.
“We accept responsibility for whatever happened, and then we’ll go back and try to work on whatever mistakes we may have noticed.”
