The Super Falcons suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Brazil in their opening match of the 2024 Olympics at Bordeaux Stadium, France, on Thursday.
Brazil secured the win with a decisive 37th-minute goal from Gabi Nunes, leaving Nigeria with no points from their first game of the tournament.
Nigerian head coach Randy Waldrum made a surprising decision by leaving star forward Asisat Oshoala on the bench, opting instead for Chinwendu Ihezuo as the center forward.
Despite a series of attempts by team captain Rashidat Ajibade—including a well-placed cross to Ihezuo and a forced save from Brazil’s goalkeeper Lorena—Nigeria’s offensive efforts fell short.
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Christy Ucheibe also tested Lorena with a strong shot, but the Super Falcons could not find the back of the net.
Brazilian forward Marta, a six-time Women’s World Footballer of the Year, had an initial goal in the 36th minute disallowed for offside after a VAR review.
However, just minutes later, Nunes took advantage of a defensive lapse to score the only goal of the match, beating Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie.
The Super Falcons will now turn their attention to their next group stage match against Spain on Sunday.