Spain Edges Nigeria in Thrilling Group C Encounter

In a highly anticipated match, Spain emerged victorious against Nigeria, securing a 1-0 win in their Group C encounter in Nantes on Sunday. The victory was thanks to a sublime free-kick from Alexia Patellas in the 85th minute.

Nigeria’s strategy of sitting back and defending allowed Spain to dominate possession early in the game, but the world champions struggled to break down the Nigerian defense led by the experienced Osinachi Ohale. Esther Okoronkwo came close to scoring in the 22nd minute, but her goal-bound effort was saved by Spain goalkeeper Cata Coll.

Rasheedat Ajibade had two glorious chances to score for Nigeria, but both were wasted. First, she was set up by Oshoala but failed to get the ball under control, and then she shot wide from inside the box in the 65th minute.

Spain continued to push for a goal, and Chiamaka Nnadozie produced a stunning save to deny Lucia Garcia in the 45th minute. After the break, Salma Paralluello had a goal chalked off for offside in the 53rd minute, but Spain’s dominance continued.

Patellas’ decisive moment came in the 85th minute when she scored a superb free-kick that beat Nnadozie. Nigeria’s substitute Chiwendu Ihezuo had a chance to equalize in stoppage time, but her effort was unsuccessful.

The Super Falcons will face Japan in their last group game on Wednesday, hoping to bounce back from this defeat.