Alexia Patellas netted a fantastic free-kick as Spain secured a 1-0 victory over Nigeria in a tightly contested Group C match in Nantes on Sunday at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Super Falcons opted to sit back, allowing La Roja of Spain to control possession in the game’s early stages.
Despite their efforts, the world champions could not penetrate the Nigerian defence, which the experienced Osinachi Ohale marshalled.
Esther Okoronkwo came close to opening the scoring in the 22nd minute but was denied by Spain goalkeeper Cata Coll.
Rasheedat Ajibade set up a goal-scoring opportunity for forward Esther Okoronkwo, but Spain goalkeeper Cata Coll saved her shot.
Nigeria’s Oshoala provided a pass to Ajibade, who missed a clear chance for a goal nine minutes before halftime.
Chiamaka Nnadozie made an outstanding save to thwart Lucia Garcia’s attempt in the 45th minute.
Following the break, Spain continued to dominate the game, and Salma Paralluello had a goal disallowed for offside in the 53rd minute.
Ajibade missed another opportunity in the 65th minute, shooting wide from inside the penalty box.
Osinachi Ohale executed a superb block to deny Aitana Bonmati’s effort with 10 minutes remaining in the game.
However, in the 85th minute, Patellas scored a sensational free-kick that eluded Nnadozie, securing the winning goal for Spain.
In stoppage time, substitute Chiwendu Ihezuo missed a clear-cut chance to equalize for Nigeria.
The Super Falcons will clash with Japan in their final group match on Wednesday.
