Spain’s women national football team have put the Super Falcons in front of a mountain to overcome before achieving their dream of advancing to the next round of the 2024 Olympic Games football event.
Needing to avoid defeat to stand a better chance of reaching the knockout phase, an 85th-minute free kick by Barcelona Femeni midfielder Alexia Putellas caught Super Falcons keeper Chiamaka Nnadozie off her lines to seal all three points for the world champions.
Nigeria battled valiantly throughout the match, creating several scoring opportunities and exhibiting defensive tenacity. The Super Falcons’ resolve was evident, yet struggled to penetrate Spain’s well-organised defense. Despite their concerted efforts, Nigeria failed to find the back of the net.
Spain, meanwhile, demonstrated their tactical prowess and sustained pressure on the Nigerian defense. Salma Paraluello thought she’d put Spain ahead only for VAR to rule out the goal for offside of the finest margins.
Rasheedat Ajibade had a great sight of goal in the second half when a layoff from former Barcelona Femeni forward Asisat Oshoala set her up nicely, only for her to send her effort over the Spain goal.
But that chance was nothing compared to when Chinwendu Ihezuo found herself through on goal from the left flank, bearing down on goal only for her to fire a tame shot that Cata Coll saved.
Nigeria’s wasteful play was soon punished. The pivotal moment arrived when Putellas sent a free kick that looped over Nnadozie’s reach and dipped just at the right time to finally break the deadlock for Spain.
The Super Falcons’ defeat to Spain represents a significant setback in their Olympic campaign. Currently in fourth position with zero points, Nigeria faces an uphill battle to progress.
Nigeria must now defeat Japan by two goals or more and hope Spain defeat Brazil to stand any chance of advancing to the next round. Japan got their Olympic campaign back on track following a 2-1 win over Brazil in the other Group C match played on Sunday.
As they prepare for their final group stage match against Japan, the Super Falcons will need to regroup and reflect on their performance.