The Super Falcons’ campaign at the Paris Olympics is over after they lost their last group C game to Japan. The Falcons played the Asian side in their last group C game.
Before their loss to Japan, Nigeria lost their first two games played against Brazil and Spain all ended 1-0, but they were optimistic about a positive result from today’s game, which could keep their hope of qualifying for the next round alive.
The game started on a disappointing note, with the Nigerian side conceding twice in ten minutes after the first goal was scored in the 22nd minute. Coach Randy Waldrum’s girls remained silent early on in the game, which provided a difficult response.
The first goal of the game was scored by Hamano Maika. Tanako Maina’s awesome, taken free-kick beat Chiamaka Nnadozie in the 32nd minute for the second goal of the day.
In the 42nd minute, Japan’s second goal pushed the Nigerian ladies to a goal behind the net. A team effort proved effective when Jennifer Echegini struck the ball at the back of the net, a goal that gave the ladies hope.
A third goal from the Japanese Kitagawa Hakaru deepened the hope of the Falcons. The goal restored the two-goal lead of the Asian ladies.
After failing to participate in the competition for 16 years, the ladies’ disappointment continued as they failed to go beyond the group stage. An impressive play from the Falcon could not provide a goal in the second half, and the teams were eliminated without winning a single game in the tournament.
Spain saw off Brazil 2-0 to win the group, while Japan finished second. The South Americans ended the show as the third-placed side. Nigeria was bottom of the group with zero points.
The ladies will now return to Nigeria after their exit from one of the largest soccer fiestas.
