)
Former Barcelona forward Asisat Oshoala proved she deserves to start more games for Nigeria after her performance for the Super Falcons against Spain.
Former Barcelona forward Asisat Oshoala proved her worth with a brilliant performance for Nigeria's Super Falcons in their Paris 2024 Olympic clash against Spain.
The Nigerian legend's inclusion in the starting lineup was the talk of the town leading up to the match, following her controversial benching in the team's opening game against Brazil.
![[WATCH] Nigeria vs Spain: Barcelona icon channels inner Ronaldinho to leave Super Falcons on the brink of Paris 2024 Olympics exit](https://sportal365images.com/process/smp-images-production/ringier.africa/28072024/b073453a-d9ee-46b1-bb09-c57194c13bb9.png?operations=fit(:350))
22:14 - 28.07.2024
[WATCH] Nigeria vs Spain: Barcelona icon channels inner Ronaldinho to leave Super Falcons on the brink of Paris 2024 Olympics exit
The Super Falcons fell to the mastery of the Barcelona Femeni legend's late freekick
PAY ATTENTION: Join the BETTING PROF Telegram channel now
Oshoala shines despite Spain's loss
Oshoala, who had been forced to watch from the sidelines in the football Olympics opener as Nigeria suffered a 1-0 defeat to Brazil, was given the nod by coach Randy Waldrum for the crucial encounter with the world champions.
The decision came after intense pressure from fans, especially Nigerians, who questioned Waldrum's shocking choice to leave out the Bay FC star in their opener.
)
The 28-year-old striker didn't disappoint, putting on a clinic against Spain and justifying her selection.
Oshoala's impact was immediate, creating Nigeria's best chance of the game with a beautifully crafted move that unfortunately wasn't converted by captain Rasheedat Ajibade.
)
Oshoala's stats speak volumes about her influence on the pitch against the World Champions who had dominated Japan in their opener.
She created two chances, made two key passes, and boasted a perfect completion rate for both crosses and long passes.
)
The forward also won three duels before being subbed off in the 73rd minute.
Despite Oshoala's heroics, Nigeria couldn't avoid another heartbreaking defeat in Paris 2024.
)
A moment of magic from former two-time Best Women's Player, Alexia Putellas, saw Spain snatch victory with a stunning late free-kick that left Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie dazed.
The Super Falcons now face a do-or-die situation in their final group stage match against Japan.
)
But following her impressive showing against Spain, Oshoala looks set to retain her place in the starting XI for this crucial encounter.
With their Olympic dreams hanging by a thread, Nigeria will be banking on Oshoala's experience and creativity to guide them to the quarterfinals.
The stage is set for the Nigerian legend to once again prove why she's considered one of the best in the business and remains a key player for African giants, Super Falcons.
Related content
)
21:51 - 28.07.2024
Player Ratings: Oshoala, Nnadozie shine, Ajibade flops in Super Falcons defeat to Spain
Pulse Sports' scorecard of Super Falcons' performance against world champions Spain.
)
21:01 - 28.07.2024
Paris 2024: What Super Falcons need to qualify after Spain loss
Nigeria's Super Falcons put themselves in a tough spot after the 1-0 defeat to Spain but all hope is not lost.
)
19:44 - 28.07.2024
Paris 2024: Heartbreak for Nigeria as Putellas stunner sinks wasteful Super Falcons
Nigeria's Super Falcons have now lost back-to-back matches in Group C in Paris 2024 Olympics after the defeat against Spain.
)
13:41 - 28.07.2024
Echoes of France 98 as Super Falcons return to stadium where Nigeria beat Spain 3-2
The Super Eagles' victory over Spain remains one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history, but can the Super Falcons replicate the feat at the same stadium?
)
14:44 - 26.07.2024
Nigeria vs Brazil: 5 things we learnt as Super Falcons lose on return to Olympic Games
Here are five things that you might have missed from Nigeria's loss to Brazil in the opening match of the 2024 Olympic Games
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)