The 2024 Olympics is here! And as you may or may not know, it represents one of the major Women’s Football events in the World. Unlike the men’s game, which features younger, up and coming players, the battle in the women’s game for the gold is white hot. Whether you’re an expert on the women’s game or looking to find out more - Matchday has you covered.
Paris Summer Olympics 2024. Twelve Teams. All of them with a legit chance of bagging a medal. Some of the greatest talent in the world on display. The summer of football is far from over! As impossible a task as it is, we’ve picked out six teams to watch, and some special players to keep your eyes on during the Olympic run.
Spain, Japan, Australia, Zambia, Colombia, and France. Each bringing high level play, a catalogue of world class talent and an abundance of skill to Paris this year.
“I think that we’re now an example to follow at a global level, top-class players who have unique quality but at the same time know how to compete with any opponent. That was what we were missing but we’ve got it now” - Aitana Bonmati
Mere months after their dominating display at the 2023 World Cup, the reigning world champions have their eyes set on the medals. In what is surprisingly their first ever Olympic tournament, Spain boast a fantastic generation of players in their primes. They must surely be seen as the team to beat.
Oh Alexia, a two-time Ballon d’Or winner and arguable GOAT, remains a pivotal player for Spain. Her vision and passing accuracy make her the creative engine of the team.
At just 23, Coll established herself as Spain’s first-choice goalkeeper and never looked back. Known for her quick reflexes and composure under pressure, she played a crucial role in their Nations League success.
Zambia’s road to the Olympics has been nothing short of electric, including an exhilarating performance against Ghana. Captain Barbra Banda secured a brace in a last-minute heroic effort from a free kick set piece in the final action of the game.
Her leadership and heroics captivated the hearts of all players and fans alike, as she led Zambia to a triumphant victory over Morocco in the second leg of the finals. Securing yet another brace to secure their slot in the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics.
After becoming the world’s most expensive transfer in women’s history last summer, Kundananji has big expectations to live up to. At only 24 years old, she’s widely regarded as one of the best forwards in women’s football, with a jaw dropping campaign in Madrid CFF where she bagged 33 goals in 43 games before her move to the sunny skies of California.
A Zambian living legend with over 53 goals in 61 caps, her leadership and prowess in front of goal at only 24 years old speaks volumes to the talent and ability that oozes out of her. She became the second most expensive transfer fee in women’s history last summer in her move to the Orlando Pride after an amazing campaign with Chinese Super league team ‘Shanghai Shengli’ that saw her win the 2023 “IFFHS World’s Best International Goal Scorer”. She’s in amazing form after bagging 12 goals in 12 appearances in her debut season for Orlando. One to watch!
“Colombia have what it takes to achieve big things. We’re taking it step by step but we want to be the champions” - Linda Caicedo
Colombia has had a meteoric rise ever since the 2022 CONCACAF performance that saw them secure a place in both the Olympics and the World Cup. Their performance in the World Cup was nothing short of historic, as they made it to their first ever quarter-finals qualification.
Usme, Colombia’s all-time leading scorer, is known for her precision in set-pieces and clutch performances in critical matches.
At 18, Caicedo is already a star, having scored crucial goals in the World Cup. Her speed and dribbling make her a constant threat to defenders. If she can shrug off the pressure of the Olympics, we could be witnessing the birth of a legend.
“Last year’s World Cup went a long way in rekindling the nation’s love and support for the Nadeshiko. Heading into Paris 2024 I think the expectations have risen as a result.” - Yuki Nagasato
This year’s 2024 Paris Olympics shines as a beacon to rejuvenate the public enthusiasm for women’s football in Japan. It won’t be easy for them though, Japan’s qualification sees them as the final entry in ‘the group of death’ alongside Brazil, Nigeria and world champions Spain. That said, the Nadeshiko absolutely hammered Spain 4-1 at the last World Cup, so do not be surprised if they cause some upsets.
Kumagai’s experience and leadership are invaluable. A veteran of many international tournaments, she anchors the defence with her composure and skill.
Hasegawa’s midfield versatility and tactical intelligence make her a key player. She excels in both defensive duties and creative playmaking.
The talented and star-filled team is poised to finally get over the hump in their pursuit of Olympic glory. They’ve only made it to the semi finals before, but their current form paints a picture of dominance. Couple this with the home team advantage of playing in France, and there’s every reason to believe that France could star in the finals this time.
Katoto is prolific, known for her lethal finishing and aerial prowess. Her goal-scoring record at both club and international level is outstanding.
A Matchday favourite, Diani’s pace and dribbling ability make her a constant threat on the wing. Her ability to create and score goals has been crucial for France.
“We’ll come back” - Sam Kerr
Their captain is sidelined by injury, but the form and performance has not wavered. The merciless Matildas had no hesitation to put 13 past Uzbekistan on aggregate. Yes, they’re in the group of death, but every team in this tournament is here to win, including Australia.
One of the best right-backs in the world. Carpenter’s ability to defend and attack, possible through incredible conditioning, will see her covering many kilometres this tournament.
Raso’s speed and tenacity on the wing are her trademarks. She has a knack for scoring crucial goals and providing assists in high-pressure situations.
Whichever teams manage to get into medal contention this Olympics, you can be sure of some absolutely cracking football action. Come along, learn more, discuss more, hear more about the best players in the world right on our friendly Discord channel.
