Super Falcon’s campaign at the Paris 2024 Olympics came to an end with a ruthless 3-1 spanking by their Japanese group C opponents.
Nigeria needed to win the game to get a glimmer of hope for survival in the Olympic soccer contest, but it was the Blue Sumari ladies that wrapped up the game quickly in the first half.
The Super Falcons desperate to score were caught on the break in the 21st minute and Riko Ueki had the luxury to provide the assist in the six-yard box for Maika Hamano to jab in the first goal.
In the 32nd minute Ueki, was back again to torment the Nigerian defence. She headed in a cross which hit the post and bounced to the feet of Mina Tanaka who made no mistake for the second.
However, Jennifer Echegini offered the Super Falcons a chance for a fight back in the game. Christy Ucheibe caught the Japan defence in possession, she laid the ball for Echegini to shoot from outside the box.
But the revival was shortlived in added time of the first half. Hikaru Hitagawa scored from a free kick to make it 3-1.
Spain beat Brazil in the other group C game 2-0 to top the group with nine points, while Japan take second spot on six points. Brazil with three points can hope results in other group will support their advance. Super Falcons the weeping girls of the group will return home with zero point.
