By Nigeria vs Brazil
Brazilian soccer legend Marta kicked off her final international tournament in spectacular fashion, providing a crucial assist in Brazil’s 1-0 victory over Nigeria in their Group C opener of the 2024 Paris Olympics. The 38-year-old Orlando Pride star, participating in her sixth and final Olympics, showcased her enduring class with an audacious pass that set up the game’s only goal.
Marta’s moment of magic came when she spotted teammate Gabi Nunes making a run. With exceptional vision and technique, she delivered an exquisite chipped pass that split the Nigerian defense, allowing Gabi to score. This assist not only secured Brazil’s win but also demonstrated why Marta is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of women’s soccer.
The goal by Levante forward Gabi Nunes proved to be the difference in a tightly contested match. Nigeria, known for their physical style and rapid counterattacks, made Brazil work hard for their victory. However, the South American side’s superior ball control and Marta’s creativity ultimately proved decisive.
For Marta, who has an impressive tally of 116 goals in a Brazil shirt, this tournament represents a final opportunity to add an Olympic gold medal to her illustrious career. Brazil’s strong start to the tournament will undoubtedly fuel hopes that they can go all the way and provide a fitting send-off for their iconic captain.
Brazil 1, Nigeria 0
France vs. Colombia
Host nation France survived a dramatic comeback attempt from Colombia to secure a thrilling 3-2 victory in their opening match at the Parc Olympique Lyon. The French team’s dominant first-half performance was nearly undone by a spirited Colombian fightback, with a late VAR decision playing a crucial role in the outcome.
France stormed out of the blocks, with Paris Saint-Germain star Marie-Antoinette Katoto leading the charge. Katoto’s clinical brace, complemented by a goal from Kenza Dali, saw France race to a 3-0 lead before halftime. Kadidiatou Diani also made her mark with an assist, as France looked set to emulate their men’s team in securing a comfortable win on home soil.
However, Colombia refused to go down without a fight. They clawed their way back into the match in the second half, first through a penalty converted by Catalina Usme after Paulina Peyraud-Magnin fouled Mayra Ramirez in the box. The comeback gained further momentum when Manuela Pavi produced a moment of individual brilliance, embarking on a mesmerizing solo run before finishing cleverly to make it 3-2.
The match took another dramatic turn in the closing stages when Chelsea’s Mayra Ramirez was sent off following a VAR review for a dangerous tackle. This decision left Colombia to play the final six minutes of regulation time, plus over 11 minutes of stoppage time, with only 10 players. Despite this setback, the South Americans continued to press for an equalizer, keeping French fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.
This victory marks an important step for France in their quest for a first-ever Olympic medal in women’s soccer. After failing to qualify for the 2020 Olympics and disappointing performances in previous tournaments (fourth place in 2012 and a quarterfinal exit in 2016), Les Bleues are determined to make the most of their home advantage.
For Colombia, despite the loss, their spirited performance will give them confidence going forward. Having missed out on the 2020 tournament and struggled in their previous Olympic appearances in 2012 and 2016, this display suggests they could be dark horses in the competition.
France 3, Colombia 2
As the Olympic women’s soccer tournament unfolds, these opening matches have set the stage for what promises to be an exciting competition. Brazil’s narrow victory, steered by Marta’s brilliance, and France’s rollercoaster win against Colombia have already provided fans with memorable moments. With more group stage matches to come, the race for Olympic glory in women’s soccer is well and truly underway.
