Making their first appearance in the competition since featuring in three consecutive Olympics from 2000 to 2008, the Falcons are looking to reach the knockout rounds for the second time after achieving the feat at the 2004 edition.

To achieve that, the 11-time Women’s Africa Cup of Nations winners must up their game against the Spaniards, who will be aiming for a second consecutive win at the Olympics.

La Roja, who also won the UEFA Nations League earlier this year, kicked off their quest for the gold medal with a narrow 2-1 win over Japan in Nantes in the group’s first game on Thursday.

Aitana Bonmati produced a composed finish in the 22nd minute to cancel out Aoba Fujino’s early free-kick goal before Mariona Caldentey scored the all-important winner in the second half.

La Roja boasts a rich pedigree, having won 16 of their previous 19 matches in regulation time, including nine wins in their last 10 internationals.

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