The Super Falcons’ hopes of advancing to the quarterfinals of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games were dashed Sunday night after a late goal by Spain’s Alexia Putellas broke Nigerian hearts.
The highly contested match saw both teams create scoring opportunities, but it was the Spanish side that eventually emerged victorious, thanks to Putellas’ 85th-minute strike.
The goal, a direct free-kick from the left side of the Nigeria defence, left goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie with no chance, sending the Spanish players into wild celebrations.
This goal gave Spain the lead and ultimately won them the game, securing their spot in the quarterfinals of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
The Super Falcons, who had held their own against the Spanish side for most of the match, were left to rue their missed chances and lament the late sucker punch that denied them a place in the next round.
The team had started their campaign with a disappointing 1-0 loss to Brazil, a result that set the tone for a challenging tournament.
With both defeats, Nigeria’s chances of progressing to the quarterfinals are now slim. The Super Falcons must win their final group match against Japan on Wednesday to keep their Olympic dream alive.
Coach Randy Waldrum will be under immense pressure to turn the team around and inspire a victory against the Asian giants.
The loss has left Nigerian football fans disappointed, but proud of the team’s spirited performance against a strong Spanish side.
Ezinwanne Onwuka, senior staff reporter and columnist with WAP is a Nigerian-based writer and content developer. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy from the prestigious University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Her interests include reading, writing, researching and graphic designing.
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