Super Falcons Star Mmadu Welcomes CAF's Increased Investment In Women's Champions League

Former Super Falcons star, Maureen Mmadu has welcomed the recent increase in Confederation of African Football (CAF) Women's Champions League prize money calling it a "huge "motivation" for Nigeria and the broader development of African women's football.

Maureen Mmadu was the first woman footballer to earn 100 caps for the Nigeria women's national team, the Super Falcons, and she participated in four FIFA Women’s World Cups and two Olympic tournaments (Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004).

Additionally, she served as an assistant coach during the Super Falcons' record ninth continental title win in 2018 and the world cup in 2019.

Speaking with SportsBoom.com, Mmadu said the increase prize money for CAF Women's Champions League was a recognition of the value and potential of women's football in Africa.

CAF recently announced the prize money for the Women's Champions League, Morocco 2024;

Winner: USD 600,000
Runner Up: USD 400,000 
3rd Place: USD 350,000
4th Place: USD 300,000
3rd of the Group: USD 200,000
4th of the Group: 150,000

A BOOSTS FOR NIGERIAN AND AFRICAN WOMEN'S FOOTBALL

"For Nigeria, the increase in prize money is a welcome development that is expected to have a positive impact on the country's women's football," said Mmadu.

"The increased funding for the Women's Champions League is a significant step forward for African women's football. It demonstrates CAF's commitment to promoting and developing women's football on the continent, which will also provide a platform for African teams to compete at the highest level, promoting excellence and professionalism in women's football."

A CONTINENTAL BOOST

The increased funding for the Women's Champions League is a massive boost for women's football in Africa, demonstrating CAF's commitment to promoting and developing the sport.

This development is not limited to Nigeria, but has far-reaching implications for women's football across the continent.

A STEP TOWARDS BRIDGING THE GAP

"This development is a significant milestone in the growth and development of women's football on the continent," Mmadu told SportsBoom.com.

While men's football has traditionally dominated the sport, Mmadu emphasized that the increased prize money for the Women's Champions League is a step towards bridging the gap between men's and women's football.

"This development acknowledges the growing popularity and competitiveness of women's football in Africa."

A GROWING FORCE AND BRIGHT FUTURE

"Women's football in Africa is gradually gaining momentum, and looks brighter than ever, the increased prize money  is a testament to this growth. As the sports continues to attract more investment, talent, and attention, it's clear that women's football is becoming an increasingly important part of the African football landscape.

A NEW ERA FOR WOMEN'S FOOTBALL

When asked about her reflection on her playing career, and how does this funding align with her experience and vision for women's football, said replied: "As someone who witnessed the growth of women's football firsthand, I'm thrilled to see the opportunities available to players today. The sport has come a long way since my playing days.

"During my time, we didn't have the chance to compete in CAF competitions or access the same level of funding. But now, women's football is attracting significant investment, and it's up to the players to seize these opportunities.

"To succeed, players need determination, passion, and focus. They must be committed to their craft and put in the hard work required to excel. I believe this is what propelled Edo Queens to their current level."

A PROMISING DEBUT FOR EDO QUEENS

Despite losing in the third place game to FC Masar of Egypt via penalty shootout that ended 4-3, after as goalless draw in regulation time of Friday night, Mmadu said considering it was their first experience in the CAF Women's Champions League, Edo Queens did remarkably well.

"Their performance is a testament to their dedication and hard work. I believe this experience will be a valuable learning curve for the team. They will undoubtedly take away valuable lessons that will help them improve and come back stronger in future competitions. Although they didn't finish third, they gave it their all and, that's something to be proud of. Congratulations to them!

"CAF has taken notice of Nigeria's dominance in women's football. As the best African nation in women's football, Nigeria has consistently produced talented teams and players. Edo Queens' participation in the CAF Women's Champions League is a testament to Nigeria's football prowess."

PROMOTING GENDER EQUALITY

Mmadu said the increased funding serves as a significant step towards promoting gender equality in African football.

"For too long, women's football has been underfunded and undervalued. This development is a recognition of the value and potential of women's football in Africa."