The Super Falcons of Nigeria are aiming for their first victory in the women’s football event of the Paris 2024 Olympics as they face world champions, Spain in their second Group C match at the Stade de la Beaujoire, Nantes, on Sunday evening.
In their opening game, Nigeria suffered a narrow 1-0 loss to Brazil at the Matmut Atlantique Stadium in Bordeaux on Thursday, with Gabi Nunes scoring the decisive goal in the 34th minute. This marked the Falcons’ first competitive defeat in regulation time since losing to Zambia in the third-place playoff at the 2022 Africa Cup of Nations.
Returning to the competition for the first time since participating in three consecutive Olympics from 2000 to 2008, the Falcons aim to advance to the knockout rounds for the second time, having previously done so in the 2004 edition.
To reach this goal, the 11-time Women’s Africa Cup of Nations champions must elevate their performance against Spain, who are seeking their second consecutive win at the Olympics.
Spain, who also claimed the UEFA Nations League title earlier this year, began their quest for Olympic gold with a 2-1 victory over Japan in Nantes. Aitana Bonmati equalized Aoba Fujino’s early free-kick goal with a composed finish in the 22nd minute, and Mariona Caldentey scored the crucial winner in the second half.
Spain has an impressive record, winning 16 of their last 19 matches in regulation time, including nine victories in their last 10 internationals. They aim to continue their winning streak against Nigeria before facing Brazil in their final group game.
Despite Spain’s formidable offense, Nigeria’s defense has been solid, conceding only two goals in their last six matches. However, the Falcons’ attack has been less effective, scoring just twice in that period. Coach Randy Waldrum is likely to stick with a defensive lineup featuring Michelle Alozie, Oluwatosin Demehin, Osinachi Ohale, and Chidinma Okeke. Deborah Abiodun and Christy Ucheibe are expected to anchor the midfield.
Waldrum might consider altering the attack, with Esther Okoronkwo possibly starting after her halftime substitution against Brazil.
Spain’s coach Montse Tome is expected to maintain the same lineup that secured the win over Japan. Aitana Bonmati, the 2023 Ballon d’Or winner, will continue her goalscoring run in midfield alongside Barcelona teammates Patri Guijarro and Alexia Putellas.
Following the 1-0 defeat to Brazil, the Falcons are determined to rebound and focus on their next challenge. Rasheedat Ajibade expressed confidence, saying, “We missed quite a few chances against Brazil, and they took their chance. We will do our best to take our chances against Spain on Sunday.”
Although this is Spain’s first Olympic appearance, they aim to add an Olympic gold medal to their World Cup triumph last year. As favorites, they look to showcase their quality and continue their bid to become the fifth different winner of the women’s football event at the Olympics.
