- Nigeria has experienced a slow start across sports at the Paris Olympics
- Ogunsemilore was suspended for doping allegations
- Tennis and football players all suffered defeat
The Paris 2024 Olympics have commenced, but for Nigeria, the games have begun on a sour note. The nation’s athletes have faced a series of setbacks that have cast a shadow over their participation. From doping allegations to disappointing losses, Nigeria’s Olympic journey has been turbulent so far.
Ominous early troubles of D'Tigress
The troubles began even before the opening ceremony. According to a report by The Associated Press, Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, was barred from joining the country’s delegation on the boat for the Paris 2024 Olympics opening ceremony. The reasons behind this exclusion remain unclear, but it marked an ominous start for the Nigerian contingent.
Ogunsemilore tests positive for banned substance
In a blow to Nigeria’s boxing hopes, Cynthia Ogunsemilore has been provisionally suspended after testing positive for a banned substance. The International Testing Agency (ITA) reported that Ogunsemilore tested positive for furosemide, a diuretic often used as a masking agent, in an out-of-competition doping control conducted on Thursday. This suspension has dashed her chances of competing in her opening bout, dealing a significant blow to Nigeria’s medal prospects in boxing.
Olaore edged out in heavyweight
The disappointment continued in the boxing ring with Olaitan Adam Olaore's elimination from the men’s 92kg heavyweight division. Olaore suffered a unanimous 5-0 defeat against Kazakhstan’s Aibek Oralbay, failing to advance to the round of 16. This loss was a major setback, considering the high hopes placed on Olaore to make a deep run in the competition.
Super Falcons refuse to fly against Brazil
In women’s football, Nigeria’s return to the Olympic tournament for the first time since 2008 started in heartbreak.
The Super Falcons faced Brazil and were narrowly defeated 1-0. Nigeria captain Rasheedat Ajibade put in a commendable performance, and youngster Deborah Abiodun played like a seasoned veteran. However, the absence of star forward Asisat Oshoala was keenly felt.
Gabi Nunes scored a powerful strike into the roof of Chiamaka Nnadozie's goal in the first half, capitalising on a momentary lapse in the Nigerian defence. This solitary goal was enough to secure victory for Brazil, leaving Nigeria to regroup and strategise for their upcoming matches, especially the match against Spain. The setbacks did not end there, however.
Aruna and Omotayo bow out early
The Nigerian duo of Quadri Aruna and Olajide Omotayo crashed out of the table tennis event. Competing in the round of 64 of the men’s singles event at the South Paris Arena, both athletes faced tough opponents.
Omotayo’s match against Iran’s Noshad Alamiyan started promisingly as he won the first set 11-5. However, he could not maintain his momentum, losing the next three sets 11-4, 12-10, and 11-8, resulting in a 4-1 defeat.
Aruna’s match was a dramatic encounter that ended in disappointment. The 35-year-old veteran, competing in his fourth Olympics, started strongly against Romania’s Eduard Ionescu, winning the first three sets 11-8, 11-9, and 11-6. However, Aruna’s performance faltered, and Ionescu staged a remarkable comeback, winning the next four sets 8-11, 10-12, 9-11, and 11-13. This 4-3 loss was a crushing blow for Aruna, who was widely expected to advance to the later stages of the competition.
Despite these setbacks, the Nigerian athletes are determined to bounce back. On Day 2 of the Paris 2024 Olympics, Nigeria’s schedule is packed with opportunities for redemption.
What's next?
The Super Falcons will take to the field once more in women’s football against Spain, aiming to secure a victory and reignite their Olympics campaign. Also, Offiong Edem will represent Nigeria in the round of 64 match in women’s singles table tennis, seeking to advance further in the competition.
The spirit of resilience and determination is palpable among the Nigerian athletes as mentioned by officials in the camp. While the initial phase of the Olympics has been challenging, they remain focused on their goals. The Nigerian delegation is keen to put the disappointments behind them and showcase their talent on the global stage.
Tobi Amusan shines as Nigeria's flagbearer at Paris 2024 opening ceremony
Previously, TheRadar reported that record-breaking sprinter Tobi Amusan was Nigeria's flagbearer at the Paris 2024 Opening Ceremony.
The 2024 Paris Olympics started with a grand spectacle along the picturesque River Seine. Tobi Amusan, the reigning world record holder in the women's 100m hurdles, proudly led the Nigerian delegation as the flagbearer. Her role in this prestigious ceremony highlighted her exemplary achievements in track and field and placed her as a beacon of inspiration for her teammates.