Regrettably, Nigeria’s Super Falcons bid farewell to the women’s football event at the 2024 Olympic Games after a 3-1 loss to Japan.
Japan quickly established control, keeping Nigeria on the defensive from the outset.
In the seventh minute, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie pulled off an exceptional save to thwart the Japanese attack.
Japan’s dominance persisted, with Osinachi Ohale blocking a crucial chance nine minutes later.
The pressure paid off for the Asian champions when Chelsea forward Maika Hamano scored in the 22nd minute to put her team in the lead.
Mina Tanaka doubled the advantage just ten minutes later.
Despite this, the Super Falcons fought back, with PSG’s new signing Jennifer Echegini scoring a goal three minutes before halftime.
However, Hana Kitagawa restored Japan’s two-goal lead with a stunning free kick in stoppage time of the first half.
In the second half, the Super Falcons controlled possession while Japan opted to defend and counterattack.
Japan was initially awarded a penalty in the 52nd minute after an incident involving Rasheedat Ajibade, but the decision was overturned by the center referee following a VAR review.
Nigeria concluded their Group C campaign at the bottom with zero points from three games.