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Despite narrow defeats in their previous two matches in the Women’s Football Tournament at the ongoing Paris 2024 Olympics, the Super Falcons remain hopeful of securing a win against Japan at the Stade de la Beaujoire in Nantes on Wednesday.
A victory could earn them a place in the quarter-finals as one of the two best third-placed teams.
The Super Falcons previously defeated Japan in the 2004 Women’s Olympic Football Tournament in Piraeus, Greece, with Vera Okolo’s goal securing Nigeria’s only win at the Olympics and their sole quarter-final appearance to date.
“Victory over Japan is possible. We will work hard so that we can accomplish that. The Super Falcons have done it before and we can do it again,” said captain Rasheedat Ajibade.
Ajibade, along with teammates Asisat Oshoala and Chinwendu Ihezuo, had opportunities to score against world champions Spain on Sunday but were unable to capitalize.
Mercy Akide-Udoh, now FIFA’s Goodwill Ambassador for Women’s Football, remains Nigeria’s top scorer at the Olympics with four goals. Perpetua Nkwocha follows with two goals, while Vera Okolo’s lone goal came in the previous win against Japan.
The Super Falcons are determined to replicate their past success and advance in the tournament.
