Alexia Putellas scored a brilliant free-kick to secure a 1-0 victory for Spain over Super Falcons in a closely contested Group C match in Nantes on Sunday.
Nigeria adopted a defensive stance, allowing La Roja to dominate possession early on. Despite their control, the world champions struggled to penetrate the Super Falcons defense, led by the experienced Osinachi Ohale.
Esther Okoronkwo almost broke the deadlock in the 22nd minute when Rasheedat Ajibade set her up, but Spain’s goalkeeper Cata Coll made a crucial save. Ajibade had a golden opportunity nine minutes before halftime, but she failed to control a pass from Oshoala, letting the chance slip away.
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Just before the break, Chiamaka Nnadozie made a stunning save to deny Lucia Garcia. Spain continued to dominate after halftime, with Salma Paralluello having a goal disallowed for offside in the 53rd minute. Ajibade missed another opportunity in the 65th minute, shooting wide from inside the box.
Ohale made a critical block to deny Aitana Bonmati ten minutes from time. However, in the 85th minute, Putellas’ sublime free-kick finally beat Nnadozie, securing the win for Spain. Substitute Chiwendu Ihezuo missed a chance to equalize for Nigeria in stoppage time.
The Super Falcons will face Japan in their final group game on Wednesday.
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