Nigeria’s journey at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games isn’t over yet, despite a challenging start in their opening games against Brazil and Spain.

After a 16-year absence, the Super Falcons faces a tough return and is on the brink of elimination.

The former African champions narrowly lost their opening match against Brazil 1-0 on Thursday, followed by another defeat to the world champions, Spain by the same margin.

These results have made it challenging for the Super Falcons to advance, putting them in a must-win situation for their final group-stage match – and by a decent margin as well.

Rasheedat Ajibade reacts following the Women’s group C match between Spain and Nigeria during the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Stade de la Beaujoire. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)

History

The Super Falcons have participated in the Olympics three times before this year. Their first appearance was in 2000, and the team exited in the group stage.

In 2004, they had their best outing, reaching the quarterfinals, but in 2008, they exited in the group stage once again.

Is It Over or Is There Still Hope?

Earlier this week, Canada’s women’s football team was deducted six points from their group in the Olympics after using a drone to spy on a rival team’s training sessions. As a result, their coach, Bev Priestman, was also banned for one year.

Canada’s Jordyn Huitema celebrates with her teammates after scoring against Nigeria in a pre-olympic games friendly in Marbella. Photo | IG (canwnt)

This point deduction means no third-placed team can qualify from Group A, which includes Colombia, France, Canada, and New Zealand.

With three groups in the tournament, the top two teams from each group will qualify for the quarterfinals directly, along with the two best third-placed teams.

Canada, now third in Group A with no points after the deduction, had initially won two matches. If the point deduction is applied with the forfeiture of two matches and a six-goal deficit, they will be out of contention as one of the best third-placed teams.

For the Super Falcons to have a chance, they must beat Japan on Wednesday and hope that Spain defeats Brazil.