In the spirit of the Olympics, references from other, lesser known sports often become relatable to the normal observer’s eye. For example, a bullseye in archery is considered a job exceptionally well done while falling off your foil in wind sailing most likely indicates game over. But, in the realm of football, stopping and scoring goals is all that matters after 90 minutes. Spain’s most recent Group C matchup against queens of Africa Nigeria saw neither a perfect bullseye nor a fall off the metaphorical wind sail foil, but just enough effort to survive. Nigeria, nicknamed the “Super Falcons” knew their challenge in the defending World Cup champions and did not show fear or back down. Spain’s momentum from their opening 2-1 victory against Japan did not have the same effect on the women wearing white and green. At kickoff, a familiar face was lined up on the other side of the field with former FC Barcelona striker and Africa’s player of the year Asisat Oshoala starting against her previous club. No love lost, but also no beating around the bush since Nigeria needed to clinch any crucial points after falling to Brazil 1-0 in their Olympic opener. When kickoff began, the game was anyone’s for the taking.
In an outstanding performance, Nigeria’s goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie made five fantastic saves and three crucial clearances against the possession-based Spaniards who fired from all cylinders. La Roja’s Starting XI included more than half being Barcelona based along with goalkeeper Cata Coll agile as an acrobat. Every time Nigeria would fiercely and desperately defend a cross or close chance, Spain came back pushing stronger and further down the opponent’s line. In these preliminary group stages, ties are permitted since not part of the knockout stages (yet), and a tie it was until the 85th minute. A free kick was gifted to Alexia Putellas, who needs no introduction and certainly makes her name known through talent, such as scoring a goal in the 85th minute. Outside of the 13-yard box, which is the goalie’s territory, Putellas ran forward with gusto, flicked her right foot, watched the ball curve, and the rest is history. A magnificent replay of the moment has been viewed more than 500,000 times on social media platform X, where praise was prominent for such a trick shot. Below is a screenshot of the positioning of Putellas showing just how skillful she can be. One goal later and Spain got away with another victory, securing a playoff elimination spot for an Olympic gold medal.
Currently leading the pack with two wins and no losses, Spain’s next challenge is scheduled for July 31st versus belly-up Brazil, both foundational footballing nations. Depending on region, make sure to check local TV providers or stream on Discovery Plus. We will be there, no matter what.
