The Nigeria Women’s National Team is set to face Japan, their formidable opponent in the 2024 Summer Olympics, Soccernet.ng reports.
Japan recently dominated Ghana’s Women’s National Team with a 4-0 victory at the Go Go Curry Stadium in Kanazawa, Japan, as part of their preparation for the tournament.
The Super Falcons of Nigeria have been drawn into a challenging group alongside Japan, Spain, and Brazil for the Olympics, which will be held in Paris later this month.
Japan, a strong contender, has participated in the Olympics five times, with their best result being a silver medal in 2012.
They reached the quarter-finals in the 2020 edition. In contrast, the Super Falcons have made three appearances, with their best result being a quarterfinal exit in 2004.
The upcoming clash between Nigeria and Japan on July 31 at the Stade De La Beaujoire is crucial for both teams’ chances of advancing to the next round of the competition. Japan’s recent victory over Ghana has raised concerns about Nigeria’s preparedness for the match.
Despite these concerns, Nigeria boasts an array of talented players who performed admirably at the 2023 Women’s World Cup, where they were eliminated in a penalty shootout.
Key players such as Asisat Oshoala, Tosin Demehin, Deborah Abiodun, Michelle Alozie, Jennifer Echegini, and Tony Payne are expected to be pivotal for Nigeria under the guidance of coach Randy Waldrum.
It’s worth noting that Nigeria lost to Japan 2-0 in their last meeting in 2022. However, the current Super Falcons squad has improved since then and is better equipped to face Japan in this crucial Olympic tie.