Spain’s women’s national team dashed the Super Falcons’ hopes of advancing to the next round of the 2024 Olympic tournament, as the World Champions defeated Nigeria 1-0.
Spain and Barcelona Femeni midfielder, Alexia Putellas secured all three points for Spain with a cunning free kick in the 85th minute, catching Nigeria’s goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie off guard.
Earlier in the match, Esther Okoronkwo came close to scoring with a solid effort in the 22nd minute, but Spain’s goalkeeper, Cata Coll made a remarkable save. Bay FC forward, Asisat Oshoala also had a promising opportunity in the 35th minute, delivering a sharp pass to Atletico Femeni’s Rasheedat Ajibade, who couldn’t find the finish.
Despite their efforts, Nigeria struggled to break through Spain’s defense. Towards the end of the first half, Chiamaka Nnadozie, the reigning African Women Goalkeeper of the Year, made a crucial save to deny Putellas.
In the second half, Spain’s Salma Paralluelo appeared to have scored from a Teresa Duenas cross, but the goal was disallowed after a VAR review. Despite Spain’s dominance, Nigeria continued to push forward. Rasheedat Ajibade had a clear chance to give the Super Falcons the lead, but her long shot missed the target.
The Nigerian women’s team will face Japan in their next game. However, even a win may not guarantee their advancement unless they achieve a significant goal-difference victory and Brazil loses, allowing Nigeria to secure a best-loser qualification.
The Super Falcons now face a daunting challenge to keep their Olympic dreams alive.
