The stage is set for a titanic clash between two continental powerhouses as Nigeria’s Super Falcons take on Brazil’s Seleção in their opening match of the Paris 2024 Olympics Women’s Football Tournament Group C.
The highly anticipated encounter, set to kick off at 7 pm local time at the Matmut Atlantique Stadium in Bordeaux, France, will see the two giants of African and South American football go head-to-head in what promises to be an exciting start to their Olympic campaigns.
While the Super Falcons have dominated women’s football in Africa, winning 11 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations titles, Brazil’s Seleção have been the undisputed champions of South America, claiming the Copa América crown eight times out of the nine tournaments held.
This will be the third meeting between the two sides, with Brazil emerging victorious in their previous two encounters. In the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup quarterfinals, Brazil won 4-3 after extra time, while at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, they secured a 3-1 victory over Nigeria.
Now, Nigeria, who are making their return to the Olympics after a 16-year absence, are looking to secure their first-ever win against the mighty Brazilians. Under the guidance of head coach Randy Waldrum, the Super Falcons are determined to defy their underdog status and make a strong start to their Olympic journey.
“The training is good. The preparation is good. The spirit is high. Everyone is ready from the coaches, players, and staff, and everyone in camp is so happy and fighting so hard to prepare better for the Olympics,” said Nigeria midfielder Christy Ucheibe.
Brazil, on the other hand, arrive at the Olympics in high spirits, having won 10 out of their last 15 games since the appointment of coach Arthur Elias in September 2023. The Seleção are aware of the importance of this opening match, as forward Adriana noted, “This first game is crucial. In fact, it will always be like this. In any case, we need to concentrate and focus a lot on this debut.”
The clash between the two continental giants promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams determined to start their Olympic campaigns on a high note. Football fans around the world will be eagerly anticipating this clash of titans at the Matmut Atlantique Stadium.