The Super Falcons are set to face Brazil in the Paris Olympic Games football event, buoyed by their successful outing at last year’s World Cup. Nigeria will be seeking to avenge their previous defeats by Brazil, having never won against the South American side in their two previous encounters.
Historical Encounters
Nigeria first faced Brazil in the quarter-finals of the 1999 Women’s World Cup, narrowly losing 4-3. In their second clash at the 2008 Olympic Games, Brazil emerged victorious again with a 3-1 win during the group stage.
Current Form and Aspirations
Brazil has been a dominant force in women’s Olympic football, securing silver medals in both the 2004 and 2018 events. In contrast, Nigeria is participating in the Olympic women’s football event for the first time in 16 years, with their best performance being a quarter-final loss to Germany in Athens 2004. The Super Falcons aim to surpass their 2004 achievement, starting with their match against Brazil.
Nigeria enters the game with an unbeaten streak of eight matches, while Brazil has won nine of their last eleven fixtures.
Key Players
Coach Randy Waldrum has a talented roster to choose from, including former Barcelona Femeni forward and Ballon d’Or nominee Asisat Oshoala, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, and defenders Osinachi Ohale and Michelle Alozie. The team has no injury concerns heading into the match.
Brazil’s squad features veteran Marta Vieira da Silva, who at 38 years old is likely playing in her final Olympic Games. Brazil will be looking to give her a memorable send-off, starting with their match against Nigeria.
Match Details
The Nigeria vs Brazil match in the women’s football event of the 2024 Olympic Games is scheduled for 6:00 pm (Nigeria/WAT) on Thursday, July 25th, 2024. Following this game, Nigeria will face Spain on July 28th and Japan on July 31st in their subsequent group matches.