Nigeria, Aug. 5 -- Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu has hinted that Toni Payne could be handed a starting role in midfield to replace the suspended Jennifer Echegini in Nigeria's decisive Women's Africa Cup of Nations Group C clash against Egypt, while firmly rejecting claims that sentiment influences his squad selection.

Nigeria head into the must-win encounter without two influential players. Midfielder Echegini is suspended after accumulating two yellow cards during the group stage, while defender Oluwatosin Demehin will also miss the game after her red card in the victory over Zambia.

Speaking during his pre-match press conference, Madugu revealed that team selection is driven by tactical demands and the specific qualities req...