No USA, No Germany: Nigeria Legend Ayisat Yusuf Predicts Paris 2024 Olympic Women's Champions

African Women legend Ayisat Yusuf has tipped either Spain or France to win the gold medal of the 2024 Olympic women’s football competition, overlooking former winners United States of America and Germany.

Twelve teams assemble in Paris for the sporting spectacle, with current World Cup champions Spain and reigning Olympic champions Canada leading the charge for the gold medal.

With kick-off just weeks away, Yusuf, who represented Nigeria for 14 years and also participated in the tournament, believes either La Roja or The Blues will emerge as champions in the final on August 10 at Parc des Princes in Paris.

To her, both teams would rely on their current form, disregarding the prospects of The Stars and Stripes, who have won the FIFA Women’s World Cup four times.

Image Credits: Monaliiku 

“Football today is unpredictable because every country is putting in tremendous effort. With the game becoming more entertaining and competitive, it is difficult to accurately predict the winner,” Yusuf told SportsBoom.com.

“I understand that different countries are giving their best effort. Competing in the Olympics is the pinnacle for athletes, and everyone aims to participate not just for the experience but to win medals, especially the gold.”

“Honestly, if I have to choose, I would tip Spain’s women’s national team. They are working incredibly hard.”

However, I’m not saying it’s impossible for Nigeria to go for the gold medal. Anything is possible with effort, commitment, and determination.”

“However, I don't see the United States competing for the gold medal, before the table has turned against the. I would put my money on Spain or France, but we shouldn't rule Nigeria out either.”

Nigeria Can Survive Group of Death

Nigeria defeated arch-rivals South Africa to make a comeback to the Olympic Games after being absent for 16 years. They will represent Africa alongside Zambia.

In their pursuit of gold, the Super Falcons must navigate through a formidable 'Group of Death,' facing reigning world champions Spain, former World Cup winners Japan, and two-time Olympic silver medallists Brazil.

Regardless, the veteran coach, who holds a UEFA B License, remains optimistic about Randy Waldrum’s team. She insists that they can defy the odds and achieve success.

She added: “The group is challenging. In the last Women’s World Cup, they faced a similarly tough group, and to the surprise of many, they captivated the world from their very first game until their eventual exit.

“Respectfully speaking, Brazil is a formidable team and one of the largest football-playing nations, and Japan is similarly strong. They are known for their fast-paced style of play, boasting considerable strength and energy.”

“As for the Spanish national team, their performance at the last Women’s World Cup is well-documented.”

Ajibade the Player to Watch Out For

The Atletico Madrid star, who captains the Nigerian women's team, is predicted to be the standout performer at the Paris Olympics.

Since making her senior debut in 2018, 24-year-old Ajibade has been a driving force for the squad.

“In this regard, Rasheedat Ajibade has been working exceptionally hard and has been impressive so far,” added the Nigerian-Finn.

“She appears very focused and committed and has proven to be a strong leader. She is definitely someone to watch out for in Paris.”

“Ajibade is a selfless player who supports all her teammates. Watch out for her, and by God's grace, I believe she will perform exceptionally well, just as she has always done for Nigeria and her club.”

“She was recently named Atletico Madrid’s Player of the Season, a testament to her hard work and selflessness. Though I am not very close to her, I am truly impressed with what she has accomplished so far, and I am very proud of her.”