Nigeria’s Super Falcons bow out of the Paris 2024 Olympic games after losing to Japan 3-1 in their third successive defeat.
Both teams needed to win the match tonight to advance to the knockout stages, though Japan could have settled for a draw.
Nigeria’s Super Falcons were eliminated from the women’s football event at the 2024 Olympic Games after a 3-1 loss to Japan. The match, held at the Tokyo National Stadium, showcased Japan’s tactical superiority and Nigeria’s resilience.
Japan took control of the game early, pushing Nigeria onto the defensive. From the outset, it was clear that Japan intended to dominate possession and press high up the pitch. In the seventh minute, Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie made an incredible save to prevent an early Japanese goal, diving acrobatically to her left to keep her team in the game.
Japan maintained their dominance on the field, with their midfielders orchestrating play and creating numerous chances. Osinachi Ohale’s crucial block nine minutes later epitomised Nigeria’s defensive efforts as she thwarted a clear scoring opportunity for the Japanese side.
The pressure eventually paid off for the Asian champions. In the 22nd minute, Chelsea forward Maika Hamano broke the deadlock with a well-placed shot that left Nnadozie with no chance.
Japan’s relentless attack continued, and just ten minutes later, Mina Tanaka doubled their lead with a clinical finish after a swift counterattack.
Despite being under constant pressure, the Super Falcons managed to pull one back before halftime. PSG’s new signing Jennifer Echegini scored a beautiful goal, latching onto a cross and sending a powerful header past the Japanese goalkeeper. This goal provided a glimmer of hope for the Nigerian team as they headed into the break.
However, Japan quickly extinguished any hopes of a Nigerian comeback. Hana Kitagawa extended Japan’s lead with a stunning free kick just before the end of the first half, curling the ball over the wall and into the top corner of the net.
In the second half, Nigeria showed more intent, holding possession better and pushing forward in search of goals.
They created several opportunities, with Rasheedat Ajibade and Asisat Oshoala leading the charge. Japan, on the other hand, seemed content to sit back and absorb the pressure, looking to strike on the counter.
A moment of controversy arose when Rasheedat Ajibade was initially penalised for pulling an opponent in the box. However, after a VAR review, the decision was overturned, much to the relief of the Nigerian bench.
Despite their efforts, Nigeria couldn’t find a way through the well-organised Japanese defence. The match concluded with Japan comfortably seeing out their 3-1 lead.
At the end of three games, Nigeria finished at the bottom of Group C with zero points, marking a disappointing end to their Olympic campaign.
Japan, with this victory, secured their place in the knockout stages, showcasing why they are considered one of the tournament favourites.
For the Super Falcons, the focus will now shift to rebuilding and preparing for future competitions, taking valuable lessons from their Olympic experience.
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