Paris 2024 Olympics: How Nigeria players performed in big loss to Japan

By Wale Mustapha

The Nigeria women’s national team ended their 2024 Paris Olympics campaign on a disappointing note with a 3-1 loss to Japan on Wednesday.

This defeat marked their third consecutive loss, eliminating them from the tournament.

Nigeriafootball.ng reviews the performances of the Super Falcons’ players in this crucial match.

Chiamaka Nnadozie – 6.5/10

Nnadozie was below her usual standards in this match. She conceded a cheap goal and struggled with positioning on several occasions. Her distribution was also off, likely due to fatigue from previous games.

Michelle Alozie – 5.5/10

Alozie maintained her combative and aggressive defending style against Japan. She adapted well when shifted to left back but was unable to join the attack as frequently due to the speed of the Japanese forwards.

Chidinma Okeke – 5/10

Okeke had a tough outing, appearing jaded and struggling throughout her time on the pitch. It was no surprise when she was substituted for Payne.

Oluwatosin Demehin – 6/10

Demehin was not at her best, committing two significant errors that led to Japanese goals.

Osinachi Ohale – 6/10

Ohale was the busiest of the Nigerian defenders, under constant pressure, and made several faulty passes that compounded the team’s defensive struggles. She was substituted in the closing minutes due to fatigue.

Deborah Abiodun – 6.5/10

Abiodun found it challenging to cope with the pace and aggression of the Japanese. She lacked support in the midfield as both Ucheibe and Ajibade played wider roles.

Christy Ucheibe – 6/10

Ucheibe delivered a solid performance, distributing the ball well and providing a defensive shield when needed.

Rasheedat Ajibade – 6.5/10

Ajibade was less dominant than in previous games, partly due to her new central midfield role. Despite this, she had several impressive moments initiating attacks for the Falcons.

Asisat Oshoala – 5/10

Oshoala showed significant improvement from her previous game, utilizing her physicality well and providing the assist for Nigeria’s only goal of the match.

Oyedupe Payne – 5/10

Payne had a quiet game and made little impact. She was substituted after struggling to influence the match.

Jennifer Echegini – 7/10

Echegini was very mobile, and her runs troubled the Japanese defenders. She scored Nigeria’s only goal, providing a consolation in an otherwise disappointing match.

SUBSTITUTES

Nicole Payne – 5.5/10

Nicole Payne provided solid defensive support on the right and contributed occasionally to the attack.

Chiwendu Ihezuo – 5/10

Ihezuo brought aggression and mobility when she came on but was effectively contained by the Japanese defense.

Esther Okoronkwo – 5/10

Okoronkwo offered physical presence and drive in midfield after coming on, but couldn’t change the game’s outcome.

Uchenna Kanu – N/A

Kanu entered the game too late to make any meaningful impact.