The two Africa representatives at the ongoing women’s football event of 2024 Olympic Games in France, Super Falcons of Nigeria and Copper Queens of Zambia fell to their opponents on Matchday one of the competition on Thursday.
Africa giant, Super Falcons narrowly lost 1-0 to heavyweight Brazil in Bordeaux in their opening Group C match at the 2024 Olympic Games. The Super Falcons started strong, creating three good chances in the first 25 minutes. Chiwendu Ihezuo’s close-range shot was saved by Brazil’s goalkeeper Lorena, who also made a superb save to deny midfielder Christy Ucheibe’s shot from outside the box. Osinachi Ohale then headed over the bar from Toni Payne’s excellent cross.
Legend Marta scored in the 33rd minute, but her effort goal was disallowed for offside. However, Brazil went ahead when Gabi Nunes found the net eight minutes before halftime, assisted by Marta. In the second half, the Samba Girls dominated, with Marta hitting the post six minutes after the break. Lorena made an impressive save to stop Ajibade’s attempt.
Brazil maintained their lead to move to the top of Group C, alongside Spain, who beat Japan 2-1 earlier in the day. Nigeria will battle world champions Spain in their second game in Nantes on Sunday.
In the same vein, the Copper Queens of Zambia suffered a 3-0 loss to The United States in Nantes. Team USA scored all their goals in the first half at La Beaujoire Stadium before Zambia defender Pauline Zulu received a straight red card in the opening 45 minutes after a VAR check.
Mallory Swanson scored two goals within 70 seconds to give the United States total control of the match by the 25th minute. Trinity Rodman opened the scoring with a clever move, receiving a pass between two Zambian defenders and positioning the ball behind her before beating the keeper.
The American dominated the match, outshooting Zambia 26-7, but only managed to get eight of those attempts on target.Swanson nearly secured a hat trick by the 60th minute, but her open shot went over the crossbar. The final score could have been higher given the number of chances the Americans created. Zambia played a player down for most of the game after defender Pauline Zulu received a red card.The Copper Queens will play Australia on Sunday.
