Spain kicked off their debut in the women’s Olympic football tournament with a thrilling 2-1 comeback win over Japan. The game, held at La Beaujoire Stadium in Nantes on July 25, 2024, marked a significant start for the reigning World Cup champions.
Spain fell behind early in the match when Japan’s Aoba Fujino scored a stunning free-kick in the 13th minute, leaving Spanish goalkeeper Cata Coll with no chance. However, the Spanish team, buoyed by their recent World Cup victory, quickly found their footing.
Aitana Bonmati, the current Ballon d’Or winner, played a pivotal role in turning the game around. Bonmati equalized midway through the first half, rounding the goalkeeper after receiving a precise pass from Athenea del Castillo.
The decisive moment came in the 74th minute when Mariona Caldentey netted the winner. Caldentey’s goal was the result of a clever exchange with Bonmati, highlighting the team’s cohesive play.
Spain’s starting lineup was formidable, featuring seven players from their World Cup final win against England, including the illustrious Alexia Putellas, a two-time Ballon d’Or winner. Japan also fielded a strong team with World Cup top scorer Hinata Miyazawa, but it was Fujino’s early strike that initially put Spain on the back foot.
In other Group C action, rivals Nigeria and Brazil are set to face off later, adding more excitement to the group stage. The Olympic format allows some leeway, as the two best third-placed teams will also advance to the quarter-finals, offering Japan a sliver of hope despite their opening loss.
Meanwhile, the day was also marked by drama in Group A, where reigning Olympic champions Canada overcame a scandal to defeat New Zealand 2-1. Canada’s campaign was overshadowed by controversy after assistant coach Jasmine Mander and analyst Joey Lombardi were sent home.
Lombardi faced legal issues for flying a drone over a New Zealand training session, which led to a suspended prison sentence. Despite this turmoil, Canada secured their win with goals from Cloe Lacasse and Evelyne Viens, rallying from an early deficit.
The football action continues with host nation France facing Colombia, and the United States, record four-time gold medalists, playing against Zambia in Group B. Germany and Australia will also clash in a highly anticipated matchup.
