Despite narrow defeats in their first two matches of the Women’s Football Tournament at the ongoing Paris 2024 Olympics, the Super Falcons of Nigeria are optimistic about their upcoming clash against Japan at the Stade de la Beaujoire in Nantes.
A win on Wednesday could secure their spot in the quarter-finals as one of the two best third-placed teams.
The Super Falcons have a history of toppling Japan, having secured a memorable victory against them in the 2004 Women’s Olympic Football Tournament in Piraeus, Greece. Vera Okolo’s decisive goal in that match remains Nigeria’s only win at the Olympics, also propelling them to their first and only quarter-final berth.
“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.
In their recent match against world champions Spain, Ajibade, alongside Asisat Oshoala and Chinwendu Ihezuo, had prime chances to become only Nigeria’s fourth-ever scorer in the tournament. However, they were unable to convert these opportunities, resulting in a disappointing outcome.
Nigeria’s all-time top scorer in Olympic history, Mercy Akide-Udoh, now a FIFA Goodwill Ambassador for Women’s Football, remains a beacon of inspiration. She scored four goals in her Olympic career: two in Sydney 2000 and another two in Athens 2004. Following closely is Perpetua Nkwocha, who netted twice across the 2000 and 2008 Olympics.
As the Super Falcons prepare for their crucial match against Japan, they draw on their past triumphs and the determination to rewrite their Olympic narrative. Victory over Japan not only carries the promise of progression but also the revival of a historic moment that could inspire a new generation of Nigerian footballers.
With the team’s resilience and history of overcoming odds, the Super Falcons are ready to soar once more and keep their Olympic dreams alive.
