T oday, the Stade Matmut-Atlantique will host a pivotal Olympic clash as Nigeria's Super Falcons take on Brazil’s women’s team. Both sides are eager to secure three points in this critical match of the tournament.
Nigeria’s Super Falcons are competing in their fourth Olympic tournament, following a strong performance at the 2023 World Cup. They advanced to the Round of 16, earning five points in their group stage and surpassing the reigning Olympic champions, Canada. Despite pushing England to a penalty shootout in the last 16, they were ultimately eliminated.
Having successfully navigated three rounds of qualification, including a commanding 5-1 aggregate victory over Ethiopia and narrow 1-0 wins over both Cameroon and South Africa, the Super Falcons are set to compete in the Olympics for the first time since 2008.
On the other hand, Brazil had a disappointing 2023 World Cup campaign, exiting in the group stage with just four points. Following this, Arthur Elias replaced Pia Sundhage as head coach, with a goal of leading Brazil to their first-ever gold medal in women’s Olympic football. Brazil has previously won silver medals in 2004 and 2008 and has finished fourth in 1996, 2000, and at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
Nigeria’s coach, Randy Waldrum, has named Gift Monday, Jumoke Alani, Regina Otu, and Morufa Ademola as alternates for the tournament. His 18-player squad features standout attackers such as Rasheedat Ajibade, Jennifer Echegini, and Asisat Oshoala.
In their last Olympic encounter in 2008, Brazil defeated Nigeria 3-1. This time, the Super Falcons are looking for redemption and a strong start in a challenging group that also includes Spain and Japan. To advance to the knockout stages, Nigeria will need top-notch performances against formidable opponents.
Brazil’s Arthur Elias has notably left out Kansas City Current’s Debinha from the squad but has included the legendary Marta, who is set to compete in her final major international tournament.
Kickoff is scheduled for 6 PM Nigerian time, and the match will be broadcast live on Supersport.
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