The quarterfinal matches of the Women’s Football tournament at the Paris Olympic Games will be played on August 3rd, and Nigeria’s Super Falcons still stand a chance of being part of the last eight teams.
Although the 1-0 defeats to Brazil and Spain have made the task more difficult, it is still possible for the Nigeria women’s team to advance.
Underwhelming Performance
The Super Falcons’ performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics has been underwhelming compared to their far more impressive display at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where they went unbeaten in the group stage against tough opponents like Canada, Australia, and the Republic of Ireland.
Despite creating numerous clear-cut opportunities, the nine-time African champions have failed to deliver impressive performances, resulting in consecutive defeats that have left them at the bottom of the table.
After losing 1-0 to Brazil in their opener and then falling to reigning World Cup champions Spain in their second match, many Super Falcons supporters wrote off their Olympic chances and turned their attention to other Nigerian athletes competing at the Paris Olympics.
Renewed Hope
However, the outcome of the Brazil Vs Japan match, which ended 2-1 in favor of the latter, has offered a glimmer of hope for Nigeria’s senior female football team.
In other words, the Super Falcons now have a chance to advance to the next stage as one of the best third-placed teams.
Crucial Match
The Super Falcons of Nigeria will face Japan in their final match in the group stage on Wednesday, July 31 at 4 pm. It’s a crucial match, and the African champions are expected to defeat Japan convincingly with at least a two-goal margin to join the train of the best third-placed teams.
Analysts Divided
While some analysts have expressed doubts that the Super Falcons can win against Japan with a two-goal margin, others believe it’s possible. They noted that the African champions have a solid defense and prolific attackers who just need to convert chances into goals.
The present Super Falcons team can also draw inspiration from the 2004 class that defeated the Asians 1-0 to progress to the quarter final at that time.
However, analysts have charged the Super Falcons’ coach, Randy Waldrum, to work on the attack of the team, which they noted needed improvement if they must deliver.
Key Players
They also listed some players in the team who they believe can make a difference if they ” turn up” in crucial game.
The players mentioned include Atletico Madrid striker Rasheedat Ajibade, Paris FC’s goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, six-time female African Footballer of the Year Asisat Oshoala, skilful midfielder Deborah Abiodun, and defender Osinachi Ohale.
Analysts noted that these players have impressive records and skills and are capable of helping Nigeria secure a convincing victory in their final group game against Japan, which is equally a match that will determine if they will move to the next stage in the tournament.
