Nigeria fell to a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Brazil in their opening 2024 Olympic Games womens football match, held at Stade de Bordeaux on Thursday evening.
The result, secured by a first-half goal from Gabi Nunes, sees the South Americans join Spain who defeated Japan 2-1 earlier in the day on three points at the top of Group B, while the Super Falcons and Nadeshiko are left playing catch-up.
Nigeria, who left star player Asisat Oshoala on the bench, put up a strong fight through the first half, and almost claimed the lead on the quarter hour mark when Brazil goalkeeper Lorena was forced into two excellent saves by Rasheedat Ajibade and Chinwendu Ihezuo.
However, the South Americans broke the deadlock on 37 minutes when Marta took advantage of some slack defending to tee up Gabi Nunes for a fine finish.
Nigeria swapped out Ihezuo for Esther Okoronkwo at the start of the second half, but had to wait until less than 20 minutes left to play to finally threaten an equaliser, as Ajibades drive was turned away by Lorena.
