Japan displayed clinical skills to defeat Nigeria 3-1 in the final Group C women’s football match at the Paris Olympics, sending the African giants home, as reported by NewsNow.
First-half goals from Maika Hamano, Mina Tanaka, and Hikaru Kitagawa secured Japan’s victory, securing their spot in the quarter-finals at the expense of Nigeria.
Coach Randy Waldrum maintained the lineup that suffered a 1-0 loss to Spain, with Chiamaka Nnadozie in goal, supported by Michelle Alozie, Tosin Demehin, Chidinma Okeke, and Osinachi Ohale in defense.
In midfield, Christy Ucheibe and Deborah Abiodun played pivotal roles alongside Jennifer Echegini, Rasheedat Ajibade, and Toni Payne, while Asisat Oshoala led the attack.
Nigeria struggled to maintain possession from the start, allowing the skilled Japanese team to control the game.
Despite some early challenges from Japan, Nigeria’s defense managed to contain the attacks, until Maika Hamano broke the deadlock in the 22nd minute with a well-placed finish.
Japan continued to press forward, extending their lead with a goal from Mina Tanaka before halftime, while Nigeria’s response came through a fantastic strike from Jennifer Echegini.
However, hopes of a comeback were dashed when Hikaru Kitagawa scored for Japan just before the break, securing a two-goal advantage.
Nigeria fought hard in the second half but failed to breach Japan’s defense, missing an opportunity from the penalty spot after a VAR review.
Despite their best efforts, the Falcons could not find a second goal, resulting in their elimination from the tournament at the group stage with no points.