Nigeria’s Super Falcons lost 1-0 to Canada in a friendly match at La Quinta Football Centre in Malaga, Spain, on Wednesday night, marking their final preparation before the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.
Under head coach Randy Waldrum, Nigeria fielded their strongest lineup in a 4-4-2 diamond formation to maintain their impressive unbeaten streak. Chiamaka Nnadozie started in goal, with defenders Michelle Alozie, Chidinma Okeke, Oluwatosin Demehin, and Osinachi Ohale. The midfield included Deborah Abiodun and Christy Ucheibe, while Jennifer Echegini and Toni Payne led the attack alongside Chinwendu Ihezuo and Rasheedat Ajibade of Atletico Madrid.
Canada took an early lead in the 18th minute. Despite Nigeria’s efforts to equalize throughout the match, the closest chance came in the second half when Echegini’s powerful strike hit the post.
This defeat ended Nigeria’s 15-game unbeaten streak, with their last loss over 90 minutes occurring previously. It was also the Super Falcons’ first defeat in 2024, following two wins and two draws against Cameroon and South Africa earlier in the year.
Nigeria will begin their Olympic campaign in eight days with a crucial match against Brazil in Bordeaux, followed by matches against Spain and Korea Republic.