Randy Waldrum blames missed chances for Super Falcons defeat to Spain
Super Falcons head coach Randy Waldrum has identified missed opportunities as the key reason behind Nigeria’s narrow 1-0 defeat to Spain on Sunday at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Despite strong defensive efforts for most of the match, the Nigerian team was undone by a late goal from Spanish star Alexia Putella.
Spain, the reigning world champions, were expected to dominate the encounter, but the Super Falcons held their ground until the 85th minute. A free-kick from Putella managed to slip past goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, sealing Nigeria’s second consecutive 1-0 loss at the Games.
Throughout the match, Nigeria had several chances to take the lead. Rasheedat Ajibade and Asisat Oshoala both had opportunities but were unable to convert. Even after Spain scored, Chinwendu Ihezuo had a chance to equalize but her shot was saved by Spanish goalkeeper Cata Coll.
Waldrum expressed regret over the missed chances, stating, “We had three to four good opportunities. Regrettably, we did not convert them. We had one in the first half, a breakaway, and Asisat and Rash missed those chances. Regrettably, the Spanish converted theirs.”
The coach acknowledged the strength of their opponents, saying, “We lost to two of the best teams in the world. Spain is the top team in the world and Brazil are in the top 10. We have shown that we could have got something out of those matches. It shows we can play against anybody in the world.”
With one game remaining in the group stage, Nigeria faces Japan on Wednesday. A win is essential for the Super Falcons to have any chance of advancing to the quarterfinals.
