The Super Falcons’ Olympic dream ended in disappointment on Wednesday evening as they were comprehensively beaten 3-1 by Japan in their final Group C match at the Stade de la Beaujoire in Nantes.
The defeat confirmed the African champions’ exit from the tournament, having failed to pick up a single point from their three games.
Coach Randy Waldrum made just one change to the side that lost to Spain, with Jennifer Echegini replacing Esther Okoronkwo.
Falcons display tactical ineptitude
However, the Super Falcons struggled to find their rhythm from the outset, with Japan’s high-press forcing errors and creating numerous opportunities.
The Nadeshiko took the lead in the 21st minute when Riko Ueki’s pass found Maika Hamano unmarked in the six-yard box, who calmly slotted home. Just 11 minutes later, Japan doubled their advantage as Mina Tanaka reacted quickest to a rebound after Ueki’s header hit the post.
Nigeria pulled a goal back before half-time through Echegini, who finished clinically after a clever pass from Christy Ucheibe. The goal briefly raised hopes of a comeback, but Japan restored their two-goal cushion just before the break when Hikaru Hitagawa’s free-kick found the top corner.
The Super Falcons had a chance to reduce the deficit in the second half when Rasheedat Ajibade appeared to be fouled in the penalty area, but the VAR deemed the contact insufficient to award a spot-kick. Japan continued to dominate possession and created several more chances, with Kiko Seike coming closest to adding a fourth goal.
What next for Waldrum and his girls?
The defeat marks a disappointing end to the Super Falcons’ Olympic campaign. Having qualified for the tournament after a 16-year absence, there were high hopes for the team. However, they were unable to match the intensity and quality of their opponents and ultimately paid the price.
The result will undoubtedly spark scrutiny of the team's preparations and performance, with questions likely to be raised about the squad selection, tactics, and overall approach to the tournament.
The Super Falcons will now return home to lick their wounds and begin preparations for the challenges ahead, including the defence of their African Women’s Cup of Nations title.
Nigeria line up: Chiamaka Nnadozie; Michelle Alozie, Chidinma Okeke (Nicole Payne), Osinachi Ohale (Uchenna Kanu), Tosin Demehin, Toni Payne, Deborah Abiodun (Esther Okoronkwo), Christy Ucheibe, Jennifer Echegini, Rasheedat Ajibade, Asisat Oshoala (Chinwendu Ihezuo)
