Super Falcons of Nigeria made a 16 years return to the Olympics after edging out South Africa in the qualifying series but their six years wait was smeared after suffering an opening 0-1 loss against Brazil.
The South American side took the lead in the 37th minute through Gabi Nunes following a brilliant slide through pass from Veteran forward, Marta, taking the lead against Randy Waldrum’s ladies into half-time.
The first half goal was enough for Brazil to seal an opening win after both side failed to get on the scoresheet in the second despite Nigeria’s push for an equalizer.
Falcons returned to the Women’s Olympic Football Tournament the way they left – against Brazil. Their last game at the tournament was against Brazil, when they lost 1-3 to the Canarinhas in front of 51,112 spectators at the impressive Workers’ Stadium in Beijing, China. Perpetua Nkwocha’s penalty kick that put Nigeria in front was annulled by a Cristiane hat-trick that sent Brazil to the last eight.
In a group consisting of women world champions Spain, Japan W, Super Falcons would be hoping to breathe a lifeline of hope into their campaign when they face Spain W in the round 2 tie in the next three days.
Elsewhere, Spain won their opening encounter, Germany crushed Australia, Canada picked a nervy win against New Zealand as reported by Naira Sports.
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