Falcons Record First Olympics Win, Beat Japan 1-0
From Olukayode Thomas, Athens
Super Falcons of Nigeria recorded their first ever win in the history of the Olympic Games when they defeated hard-fighting Japan 1-0 in their first match of the series. It took the heroics of goalkeeper, Precious Dede and desperate defending on the part of the defenders to record the famous victory.
The goal was scored in the 55th minute by one of the youngest players in the Nigerian squad, Victoria Okolo, from a beautiful pass from Perpetua Nkwocha.
The Falcons immediately went into action, forcing the Japanese to their own half in the first 10 minutes of the game. The Nigerians got their first corner inside the first minute and also forced a clearance off the line from a Japanese defender from the resultant corner kick.
However, after this early spell, the Nigerians lost their grip on the game, leaving the Japanese to dominate possession. Both sides created chances, which they failed to utilise. Nkwocha and Okolo were the greatest culprits on the Nigerian side. The first half ended goal-less.
At the resumption of the second half, both sides came out in search of early goal but it was the Falcons who made use of their chances. Nkwocha picked up a ball from the right flank, pulled two defenders to herself before giving a pass to the on-rushing Okolo who wasted no time in slotting in the ball for the only goal of the encounter.
The Nigerians also came close twice but lost the chances to increase the tally. The Japanese also had their chances to draw the game level but were denied by the agile Dede.
Dede was very impressive throughout the game making two important saves in the dying minute of the game. Nkwocha had the chance to nail the Japanese but shot wide after dribbling pass three defenders.
With the victory, Nigeria lead the group, with three points. Japan also have three points from two matches while Sweden, which lost to Japan in their opening game, are still without any point.
Nigeria needs a draw in their last group game against the Swedes to make it through to the semi-finals.
