Japan earned a 3-1 victory over Nigeria in their final group match at the 2024 Paris Olympics women’s football tournament. The loss eliminated Nigeria from the competition, leaving them without a point after three matches.
Japan dominated early, with Maika Hamano opening the scoring in the 22nd minute. Mina Tanaka doubled their lead in the 32nd minute, capitalising on a rebound. Nigeria’s Jennifer Echegini pulled one back before halftime, but Hikaru Kitagawa’s free-kick restored Japan’s two-goal advantage.
The second half saw Nigeria struggle to create clear chances. Japan controlled possession and threatened to extend their lead. Despite the substitutions that Randy Waldrum called into the game, they could not find a way back into the match.
This result confirms Japan’s advancement to the quarterfinals alongside group winners Spain. Nigeria exited the tournament having scored just one goal and conceded five across their three matches.
The defeat marks a disappointing end to Nigeria’s Olympic campaign, highlighting areas for improvement as they look ahead to future competitions.
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