The Super Falcons of Nigeria have been eliminated from the women’s football event at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Their exit was confirmed following a 3-1 defeat to Japan in their final Group C match at La Beaujoire Stadium, Nantes, on Wednesday.
This loss marked Nigeria’s third consecutive defeat in the tournament. Under the guidance of head coach Randy Waldrum, the Falcons finished at the bottom of their group, having conceded five goals and scored just one, ending their campaign with zero points.
To progress beyond the group stage, the Super Falcons needed a decisive victory over Japan, requiring at least a three-goal margin to secure second place or position themselves as one of the two best third-place teams. However, their performance did not match this high-stakes ambition.
The match started poorly for Nigeria, as Hamano Maika gave Japan the lead in the 22nd minute with a well-taken finish. Japan extended their advantage shortly after, with Tanaka Mina sliding the ball past Nigeria’s goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie.
Despite the setbacks, the Falcons showed a glimmer of hope when Jennifer Echegini scored just before halftime. A slick give-and-go between Echegini and Asisat Oshoala allowed the PSG striker to fire a powerful shot from outside the box, beating Japan’s goalkeeper Yamashita Ayaka.
Echegini’s goal, Nigeria’s only goal of the tournament, briefly inspired the team. However, their resurgence was short-lived as Japan restored their two-goal lead right before halftime. Kitagawa Hikaru’s perfectly placed free-kick sailed past Nnadozie, securing Japan’s victory and dashing Nigeria’s hopes of a comeback.
This tournament marked Nigeria’s return to the Olympic stage after a 16-year hiatus, having last competed in the Games in 2008. It was the Super Falcons’ fourth appearance at the Olympics, with previous qualifications in 2000, 2004, and 2008.
The Super Falcons’ journey in the 2024 Paris Olympics ended in disappointment, but their participation rekindled the spirit of Nigerian women’s football on the global stage.
Melissa Enoch
Follow us on:
