Spain started with an attacking mindset, as Athenea fired a shot in the first minute. However, Japan responded with a more direct threat, following a mistake by Aleixandri that led to a one-on-one situation between Fujino and Cata Coll. The goalkeeper saved the attempt, but shortly afterwards, was unable to stop a powerful free-kick from the same opponent.

The 0-1 scoreline, however, seemed to ease some of the tension in the Spanish play and led to their best moments in the match. Spain moved the ball well, with players interchanging positions to find gaps without wasting time. In a brilliant play through the middle, Athenea threaded the ball to Aitana Bonmatí, who dribbled past the goalkeeper to score the equaliser in the 22nd minute.

The Ballon d'Or winner had the honour of scoring Spain's first-ever Olympic goal in women's football, and the team continued to push forward against a very defensive Japan, who lined up with five at the back. Spain also sought out Salma, with Alexia Putellas moving well in the midfield, while Batlle and Carmona on the wings caused problems for the Asian side, who struggled to maintain possession in the attacking third.

However, Spain's finishing was lacking in the final third, with the best chance before half-time coming from a corner kick, where Irene Paredes controlled the ball and shot. After the break, Spain returned with a more mature approach, focusing on possession to neutralise Japan.

The Spanish team appealed for a penalty when neither Salma nor Mariona could get a shot on target, but the substitutes added depth. Oihane Hernández and Jenni Hermoso increased the pressure on a tiring Japan, and in a good move down the wing, Mariona made it 2-1 with a well-executed one-two with Aitana Bonmatí in the 74th minute.

Japan had little response, managing only one late attempt that failed to trouble Cata Coll. Spain demonstrated their quality in this challenging debut, and they will face Nigeria on Sunday in a match where they could secure a place in the quarter-finals of Group C.

United States Dominates Zambia

The United States women's national team, four-time Olympic champions, started their Olympic campaign strongly with a convincing 3-0 win against Zambia in Nice. The American team showcased their offensive power from the outset, scoring all three goals within the first 25 minutes of play.

Trinity Rodman opened the scoring in the 17th minute, followed by a brace from Mallory Swanson in the 24th and 25th minutes, setting the tone for the rest of the match. The American side, led by British coach Emma Hayes, asserted their dominance over a Zambian team that struggled to cope with their tactics.

Rodman began the scoring spree with a spectacular finish, stemming from a move initiated from midfield. Zambia tried to level the score, but the USWNT took control, maintaining long spells of possession and quick attacking transitions.

Swanson's first goal came from a well-timed pass, allowing her to get past the Zambian goalkeeper. Just seconds later, she scored again in a similar fashion, reinforcing the United States' superiority in controlling the game.

Despite playing with one player less from the 33rd minute—Pauline Zulu was sent off for denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity—the American team did not let up until half-time. In the second half, the pace slowed considerably. Zambia, led by their captain Barbra Banda, came close on a few occasions but failed to score.

Mallory Swanson's return, after missing the World Cup due to injury, was pivotal in the team's attack, proving to be a crucial player alongside Rodman. Rodman's contributions have been consistent, having played in all the team's matches since early 2023 as one of the most influential players.

This initial victory marks an important step for the United States women's team in their quest for another Olympic gold medal, providing a strong response to the criticism following their early exit in the last World Cup. The team now prepares to face Germany on 28 July in what promises to be a decisive match for advancing in the tournament.

Rest of the Day's Matches

The first round of the women's football tournament in Paris also featured four other matches. In Group A, France defeated Colombia 3-2, dominating the first half with goals from Katoto, who scored twice, and Kenza Dali. Colombia responded in the second half with goals from Catalina Usme and Manuela Pavi, but it was not enough.

In the same group, Canada won 2-1 against New Zealand in a closely contested match. Although the North Americans initially trailed, they turned the game around with goals from Cloé Lacasse and Evelyne Viens. In Group B, Germany secured a 3-0 victory over Australia, while Brazil edged Nigeria 1-0 to close the day's action. The competition will resume on Sunday, 28 July, before determining which teams advance to the quarter-finals.