Paris 2024: Zambia and Nigeria secure spots in Olympics Women’s football tournament

Zambia and Nigeria have successfully earned their spots in the Women’s Football tournament at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, set to take place in July this year.

Zambia faced a tough challenge against Morocco on Tuesday, particularly after losing the first-leg encounter 2-1 at home.

However, they showed resilience in the second leg at the Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat. Captain Barbara Banda led the charge with a crucial goal in the 38th minute, leveling the tie 2-2 on aggregate and forcing the match into extra time.

Banda continued to shine, scoring another goal just before halftime in extra time, completing her brace and securing Zambia’s victory with a 3-2 aggregate scoreline.

The Copper Queens who have secured a back-to-back Olympic qualification will now complete Group B which also houses three giants in women’s football; the USA, Australia, and Germany.

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Nigeria on the other hand went into the game against South Africa with a 1-0 home advantage and were able to repel all threats insiigated by their South African opponents.

Rasheedat Ajibade’s penalty kick during the first leg of the qualifiers in Abuja last Friday ensured the Super Falcons’ qualification for the Women’s football event at the Paris Olympics.

Welcome to the club, Nigeria and Zambia. 🇳🇬🇿🇲

The #Paris2024 field is SET! 🔐 pic.twitter.com/oRFG7d4aEd

— FIFA Women’s World Cup (@FIFAWWC) April 10, 2024

The goalless draw in the second-leg tie in South Africa was enough as Nigeria secured one of Africa’s tickets for the tournament. This achievement marks a significant milestone for the West African team, ending their 16-year absence from the Olympics.

The Super Falcons will take on world champions Spain, former world champions Japan and Brazil in Group C at the Olympics. They face the South Americans in their tournament opener in Bordeaux on July 25.