The Super Falcons have been eliminated from the 2024 Olympic Games after losing 3-1 to Japan on Wednesday, a result that saw them finish at the bottom of Group C.
Nigeria went into the game knowing that only a win would give them a chance of qualifying for the knockout stages but they could not rise to the occasion against the Asian giants.
Despite fielding a very attacking line-up, with Asisat Oshoala leading the line, Randy Waldrum’s side struggled for much of the game and were ultimately punished for their poor defensive display in the first half.
Japan opened the score after just 22 minutes when Maika Hamano tapped the ball into an open net after Nigeria’s defence had been easily beaten. Mina Tanaka made it 2-0 10 minutes later but Jennifer Echegini halved the deficit in the 42nd minute following a brilliant passing sequence by the Super Falcons.
Super Falcons lose all group matches at Olympics
There was, however, still time for one more goal before half-time, with Hikaru Kitagawa’s superb free-kick deep into added time restoring Japan’s two-goal lead.
While the Super Falcons emerged from the break with much more impetus, their efforts were a little too late as they fell to a 3-1 defeat. Wednesday’s loss also means the West Africans have now lost all three of their group matches at the Olympics.
Nigeria were beaten 1-0 by Brazil in their opening game before losing by the same scoreline to Spain in their next match. Having exited the tournament without a single win, the Super Falcons’ performance has been criticised by Nigerians on social media.
A frustrated fan on X (formerly Twitter) said the money invested in the Super Falcons should’ve been given to the country’s female basketball team, while many others also shared their differing views on the team's exit.
What next for Super Falcons?
With Nigeria out of the Olympics, the country would now have to turn their attention to next year’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
The Super Falcons have no official assignments between now and the WAFCON, but they will likely be engaged in some friendly matches ahead of the tournament.
