National Teams
Paris 2024 Olympics: How Nigeria players fared in slim loss to Brazil
By Wale Mustapha
Nigeria’s Super Falcons began their 2024 Paris Olympics campaign with a narrow 1-0 defeat to Brazil on Thursday in Bordeaux.
A first-half strike from Gabi Nunes was enough for the Seleção to secure victory in a match where the Super Falcons went toe-to-toe with their South American opponents.
NigeriaFootball reflects on how Randy Waldrum’s team performed:
Chiamaka Nnadozie – 7.5/10
The Paris FC goalkeeper had an excellent overall performance despite conceding the goal. Nnadozie was solid with her kicks, game management, and coordination of her goal area. She might need to work on quicker starts.
Michelle Alozie – 6.5/10
Alozie appeared jittery in the opening stages, especially after taking a knock. However, she recovered well, particularly in the second half when she was moved to left back.
Osinachi Ohale – 6.5/10
The veteran center-back was solid, hardly losing a tackle, although she contributed less when the Super Falcons attempted to build from the back.
Tosin Demehin – 7/10
The Reims center-back had a shaky start but made crucial recoveries to defend the goal. She found her composure and was excellent for the rest of the match.
Chidinma Okeke – 4/10
Okeke managed to keep Marta and Brazil’s right winger at bay but struggled to join the attack from the back, limiting Nigeria’s offensive operations on the left side.
Deborah Abiodun – 7.5/10
The young, combative midfielder was rock solid, covering every blade of grass. She made few mistakes and was effective with her interceptions and tackles.
Christy Ucheibe – 7.5/10
The Benfica midfielder was a standout player for the Falcons. She almost scored, forcing a smart save from the Brazilian goalkeeper, and had a rebound effort in the second half. Her marking and link-up plays were superb.
Toni Payne – 4/10
Payne was quiet throughout the game, failing to impose herself. She was unsurprisingly replaced in the second half.
Rasheedat Ajibade – 8.5/10
The Nigeria captain was the most lively player on the pitch. She initiated attacks and provided needed support under pressure. Her pace and flair troubled the Brazilian defense, but her efforts were not complemented by her teammates.
Chinwendu Ihezuo – 3/10
Ihezuo’s starting role was questionable. Her only impact was a fluffed scoring effort for Nigeria.
Jennifer Echegini – 4/10
Playing out of position, Echegini’s highlight was a first-half shot over the crossbar.
Substitutes
Esther Okoronkwo – 4/10
Okoronkwo was more mobile and brought fresh energy to the attack. Her pace forced Brazilian defenders back, limiting their build-up play.
Uchenna Kanu – 3.5/10
Kanu had little impact, playing too deep instead of adding to the attack. She did provide additional support in midfield.
Nicole Payne – 4/10
Payne was livelier at right back, with her deliveries causing concern for the Brazilians. Waldrum may consider starting her in the next game.
Ifeoma Onumonu – N/A
Onumonu had limited time to make an impact.
The Super Falcons fought hard but ultimately fell short. They will need to regroup and strategize for their next match in this challenging Olympic campaign.
