July 28, (THEWILL) -On Sunday, Japan staged a dramatic comeback to defeat Brazil 2-1 in their Group C clash at Parc des Princes. The result leaves Brazil’s quarter-final hopes in doubt while giving Japan their first points of the tournament and creating an opening that the Nigerian team can exploit.
Brazil took the lead in the 56th minute through Jheniffer, who scored with a low shot after a move created by veteran Marta. However, Japan equalised in stoppage time when Saki Kumagai converted a penalty following a handball by Yasmim. Momoko Tanikawa then sealed the win for Japan with a long-range effort after a misplaced pass by Rafaelle.
In other action, Colombia boosted their chances of advancing from Group A with a 2-0 victory over New Zealand. Marcela Restrepo opened the scoring in the 26th minute with a volley, before Leicy Santos doubled the lead in the 72nd minute.
The top two teams from each of the three groups will progress to the quarter-finals, along with the two best third-placed sides. Nigeria will be hoping to improve their fortunes in the ongoing tie against Spain to stand a chance to progress. Later matches on Sunday feature hosts France, Canada, Germany and the United States.
This result sets up an intriguing final round of group matches, with several teams still in contention for a place in the knockout stages of the women’s Olympic football tournament.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
