Despite losing their second group match to Spain on Sunday, the Super Falcons of Nigeria still have a “mathematical chance” to make it to the quarterfinals at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
At Athens 2004 Olympics, the Super Falcons, led then by the late coach Ismaila Mabo, made it to the knockout stage for the first time, and incidentally, they defeated Japan in a Group E game.
The Super Falcons’ lone goal came from “pocket dynamite” Vera Okolo. It was Nigeria’s first win in Olympic history after losing all three group games at Sydney 2000.
On Wednesday, the Super Falcons will again file out against the former world champions in their final group game of the Games with the hope of grabbing a win that will secure their second knockout phase appearance.
Before Sunday’s defeat to Spain, Coach Randy Waldrum, and his ladies squandered several chances before falling 0-1 to Brazil in their opening game of the group. The Nigerians know a win against Japan may just be enough to get them the quarterfinal ticket.
On their part, the Japanese won their first game of the Games when they came from behind to beat Brazil 2-1. The Japanese know a win against Nigeria will see them play in the quarterfinals.
They are second in group C with three points, same as Brazil while the Super Falcons is fourth with zero point.
A 2-0 win for the Super Falcons will automatically push Nigeria to third, or even second, depending on the result between Spain and Brazil.
Like the usual Nigerians’ permutations at major football competitions, the Super Falcons will then be hoping that the USA beat Australia, who came from 2-5 down to beat Zambia 6-5 in their final game. The Nigerians will also be hoping Germany beat Zambia or both settle for a draw.
The Super Falcons will also be praying for Colombia and France to secure victories against Canada and New Zealand in their matches.
