While Olajide’s 4-1 defeat against Iran’s Noshad Alamiyan didn’t come as a surprise, Aruna’s ouster was shocking as the African champion threw away a three-set lead and lost 4-3 against Romania’s Eduard Ionescu.

After winning the first three sets (11-8, 11-9, 11-6), Aruna was expected to close out the encounter in the fourth set, but a combination of his complacency and Ionescu’s resilience led to a brilliant comeback by the 19-year-old Romanian, who advanced to the round of 32 stage.

Perhaps in the wake of public opinions that trailed Aruna’s ouster, Edem jumped to the defence of her compatriots before her game against Brazil’s Bruna Takahashi on Sunday.

“It’s sad to note that many Nigerians fail to understand sports and how to develop them,” Edem wrote on Instagram.

“Instead of offering constructive support, they sit behind their keypads and type away, pouring out their frustrations on athletes who silently suffer yet strive to be their best. The Olympic Games are the biggest sporting event, and it’s a privilege to be here. All we need is support, not unnecessary criticism.

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