Nigeria’s impressive run at the 2024 Paris Olympics has sadly come to an end following a 3-1 defeat to 2011 world champions Japan at the Stade de la Beaujoiire on Wednesday evening.
Japan seized the lead with a goal from Maika Hamano, which was followed by Mina Tanaka’s strike in the 32nd minute.
Nigeria was able to reduce the deficit with a goal from Jennifer Echegini in the 42nd minute.
Just as it appeared they might stage a comeback, Japan once again increased their lead in stoppage time with a goal by Hikaru Kitagawa.
Nigeria’s Olympic Record: Jennifer Echegini Makes History
Amid the disappointment at the 2024 Paris Olympics, there was a glimmer of celebration as Jennifer Echegini secured Nigeria’s first goal, etching her name into the country’s Olympic record books.
Echegini’s feat makes her only the fourth player to achieve this milestone for Nigeria at the Olympics, following in the footsteps of Mercy Akide, Perpetual Nkwocha, and Vera Okolo. With her goal, Echegini joins the illustrious list of Nigerian players who have contributed to the nation’s Olympic legacy.
Oshoala’s Struggles Persist for Nigeria
The recent form of Oshoala, the Bay FC striker, has been concerning as she has failed to find the net for the Super Falcons since December 2023.
Her performance in the tournament has been below expectations, with her being benched in the first match and struggling to make an impact in subsequent group games.
In the match against Japan, Oshoala’s struggles were evident as she played for 60 minutes before being substituted by Chinwendu Ihezuo.
Throughout her time on the field, Oshoala was unable to produce any shots on target, attempt dribbles, and managed only 12 touches.
The Super Falcons are in need of a new goal queen
Nigeria boasts an impressive defense with Tosin Demehin and talented midfielders such as Toni Payne, Deborah Abiodun, and Christy Ucheibe.
While the attacking quality is decent with players like Asisat Oshoala, Rasheedat Ajibade, and Chinwendu Ihezuo, the team has struggled to consistently score goals.
In recent matches, the Super Falcons managed only one goal from a penalty in two qualifying games against South Africa and just one goal in three matches at the Olympics. This lack of goal-scoring prowess is unacceptable.
It is evident that coach Randy Waldrum needs to discover a new prolific striker in the mold of the great Perpetual Nkwocha.
Perhaps it’s time to consider promoting young talents like Esther Ajakaye and Esther Onyenezide to the senior team.
Japan Showed Technical Discipline, Clinical with Opportunities
Japan demonstrated exceptional technical discipline and precision in capitalizing on scoring opportunities to secure a spot in the Olympic quarterfinals.
Their recent wins over Brazil and Nigeria highlighted their tactical awareness and adept goal-scoring abilities.
During their match against Nigeria, Japan created four significant opportunities and managed to land seven shots on target.
Their clinical finishing was evident as they efficiently converted three of those chances, while effectively shutting down Nigeria’s offense, preventing any big chances for the opposition throughout the match.
