Gabi Nunes’ 37th-minute strike handed Nigeria a disappointing loss in Bordeaux on Thursday.
Randy Waldrum, the Falcons’ head coach, made the bold decision to leave star striker Asisat Oshoala on the bench, instead naming Chinwendu Ihezuo as the focal point of the attack. Without Oshoala, the former Barcelona Femeni forward, Nigeria struggled to create offensive opportunities for most of the game.
The team’s brief moments of promise were driven by the determination of skipper Rashidat Ajibade, whose skill and speed generated chances for Nigeria. On one such occasion, Ajibade delivered a sweeping cross to Ihezuo, but her effort was weak and easily saved by Brazil’s goalkeeper, Lorena.
Shortly afterward, Christy Ucheibe forced Lorena into another sharp save. Despite these efforts, Brazil began to dominate. The 38-year-old Marta, a six-time FIFA Women’s World Player of the Year, started to control the game with her creativity. Marta thought she had given Brazil the lead in the 36th minute, but her goal was disallowed after a video assistant referee (VAR) review for offside.
However, there was no reprieve for Nigeria a few minutes later when a lapse in concentration allowed Nunes to score. She smashed the ball into the net off the post, leaving Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie with no chance.
The Falcons struggled to regain control of the game, and despite a late push, Brazil held on to secure three crucial points.
Next, the Falcons will face Spain on Sunday in their second Group C match, before concluding the group stage against Japan on July 31.
By Ebubedike Ochu
