Yahoo Sports 2024 Olympics: Brazil edge past Nigeria to bank first win
Brazil got their 2024 Olympics campaign underway with a slim 1-0 win over Nigeria, thanks to a goal from Levante’s Gabi Nunes. The match marked the first time Nigeria have appeared at the Games in 16 years, having last featured in Beijing in 2008.
Brazil reached the quarter-finals of the 2020 tournament, having finished fourth three years prior at their home Olympics in Rio. Brazilian legend Marta is featuring at her sixth Olympics and has the opportunity to set a new goalscoring record at the Games to round her career off with a bang.
Starting XIs
Nigeria
Nnadozie; Alozie, Okeke, Demehin, Ohale, Ucheibe, Payne, Abiodun, Ajibade (c), Echegini, Ihezou
Brazil
Lorena; Antônia, Tarciane, Rafaelle Souza, Duda Sampaio, Tamires, Yayá, Marta (c), Ludmila, Gabi Nunes, Gabi Portilho
Nunes on song for Brazil
Nigeria initially got the tie off to a better start, forcing Lorena into several diving saves in the early stages of the clash. Despite the early scare, Brazil found their rhythm as the first half drew on. Marta got the goal-scoring action underway, however her effort was ruled offside in the 36th minute.
Just moments later, Gabi Nunes did break the deadlock, converting Marta’s assist to put Brazil ahead. The remainder of the opening half passed with half chances for both side. Neither team however were able to add to the scoreline heading into the break.
The second half saw both sides coming close to scoring, with Marta having several good chances. The No.10 needed a single goal to equal the all-time Olympic top scoring record, currently held by her compatriot Cristiane.
Ultimately, the tie finished with Brazil taking all three points from a hard-fought victory as Nigeria moved third in Group C.
Who is up next?
Nigeria will next play Spain in Group C before rounding out their group stage campaign with a meeting against Japan. Brazil will face off against Japan in their next meeting, before rounding of against world champions Spain.
