Atletico Madrid star backs Nigeria as Super Falcons face Japan in do-or-die Olympic showdown

Rasheedat Ajibade is confident that Nigeria can secure a crucial victory against Japan in their final group match at the 2024 Olympic Games, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Super Falcons have faced a challenging start, suffering narrow defeats in their opening two fixtures in Group C against Brazil and Spain. These results have left Randy Waldrum’s side at the bottom of the group, without a point from their first two games.

Despite these setbacks, the Super Falcons remain hopeful. They need a strong performance and a win against Japan at the Stade de la Beaujoire in Nantes on Wednesday to advance to the quarter-finals, potentially as one of the two best third-placed teams.

The Super Falcons have a history of triumphing over Japan in the Women’s Olympic Football Tournament. In 2004, a solitary strike from Vera Okolo secured a 1-0 victory for Nigeria in Piraeus, Greece.

This win not only marked Nigeria’s only quarter-final appearance in the Olympics to date but also stands as their sole victory in the tournament since they began competing 24 years ago.

Facing Japan on Wednesday, the Super Falcons must aim for victory to keep their quarter-final hopes alive. A win could see them progress either by goal difference or as one of the best third-placed teams.

Atletico Madrid star Ajibade has expressed her belief in the team’s ability to succeed.

“Victory over Japan is possible,” the Super Falcons captain told the NFF.

“We will work hard so that we can accomplish that. The Super Falcons have done it before and we can do it again.”

The crucial encounter is scheduled to kick off at 4 pm.