The Super Falcons’ journey at the Paris Olympics came to a disheartening end after a tough loss to Japan in their final Group C match.
Japan emerged victorious with a 3-1 win, dashing the Super Falcons’ hopes of advancing in the competition.
Despite earlier losses to Brazil and Spain, Nigeria entered Wednesday’s game with a slim chance of reaching the quarter-finals of the women’s football event. However, Japan quickly extinguished that hope, scoring twice within ten minutes starting from the 22nd minute.
Hamano Maika opened the scoring for Japan, followed by a beautifully executed free-kick from Tanako Maina that beat Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie in the 32nd minute.
In response, the Super Falcons intensified their efforts and found a glimmer of hope when Jennifer Echegini netted a goal in the 42nd minute. However, their comeback dreams were shattered when Kitagawa Hakaru scored in added time, restoring Japan’s two-goal lead.
The second half saw Nigeria pushing relentlessly for a comeback, but despite their efforts, they couldn’t close the gap. Japan had additional opportunities but didn’t manage to increase their tally.
This marks the end of Nigeria’s participation in the women’s football event of the Olympics, a competition they last competed in 16 years ago.
In the other Group C match, Spain defeated Brazil 2-0, securing the top spot. Japan finished second, while Brazil ended third. Unfortunately, Nigeria finished at the bottom of the group with no points.
