The second game of group C of the Paris Olympics women’s football event between Nigeria Vs Brazil ended 1-0.
Super Falcon’s return to the Olympics after 16 years fell short with a loss to Brazil in Bordeaux.
A loss of concentration between the 35th and 37th-minute cost the Falcons a valuable point despite starting on the front foot.
A strike by Gabi Nunes separated the two-time Olympic silver medallists from the nine-time African champions.
Nigeria Vs Brazil: Captain Fantastic, Rashidat Ajibade
Rasheedat Ajibade led the Falcons from the front with some excellent runs down the left of the South Americans.
Her teammates at the fore failed to read her moves correctly on the several occasions she sent the ball into the box.
Her final pass, after a brave run down the line in the 7th minute was blocked, and in the 16th minute, she was the initiator of a double attack on the Brazilian goal that saw Chinwendu Ihezuo’s shot blocked and Christy Ucheibe’s follow-up punched away.
Chiamaka Nnadozie Blowing Hot and Cold
In the 20th minute, Chiamaka Nnadozie saved from the rampaging Portilho, and again read well a long-range drive by Gabi Nunes five minutes later.
In the 36th minute, ageless Brazil captain Marta scored as the Falcons’ defense couldn’t clear, but she was ruled offside.
Moments later, the Nigerian defense lost focus, and Gabi Nunes, set free by a pass from Marta, beat Nnadozie.
Poor Attack and Other Stats
The Super Falcons made 15 attempts at goal and only five of the attempts counted as shots on goal.
Despite the loss the team shared possession with the Brazilians at 50% each, but were less effective.
Furthermore, the Randy Waldrum-led team’s plan to keep the Brazilians offside became their undoing with one of such leading to the only goal of the game.
In all, the team kept Marta and her teammates offside six times.
Next up for the Super Falcons is a clash with world champions Spain in Nantes on Sunday evening.
