The Super Falcons of Nigeria were defeated 1-0 by Brazil in their opening game at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Gabi Nunes’ 37th-minute strike condemned Nigeria to a dissapointing loss in Bordeaux on Thursday.
Randy Waldrum, the Falcons’ head coach, opted to leave Asisat Oshoala on the bench and named Chinwendu Ihezuo the team’s focal point in attack.
Without the former Barcelona Femeni striker, Nigeria struggled in the attack throughout most of the game.
The team’s brief spell of excellence was inspired by the sheer determination of skipper Rashidat Ajibade, who used her guile and speed to create chances for Nigeria.
One of those brilliant runs had Ajibade serving Ihezuo with a sweeping cross, but the striker’s effort was timid and straight at Lorena, Brazil’s goalkeeper.
Shortly afterwards, Christy Ucheibe forced Lorena into another sharp save.
From then on, it was all Brazil and 38-year-old Marta finally got a grip on the game with her ingenuity. The six-time women’s World Footballer of the Year thought she had given Brazil the lead in the 36th minute, but her strike was chopped up for offside after a video assistant referee (VAR) review.
But there was no VAR intervention to save the Falcons a few minutes later. A lapse in concentration presented Nunes with a chance that she gripped ruthlessly. The Brazilian smashed the ball into the net off the post beyond Chiamaka Nnadozie.
The Falcons struggled to get back in the game, and despite a late rally, the Brazilian held on for vital three points.
The Falcons will play Spain on Sunday for their game of Group C before facing Japan in the final match on July 31.
