By CJ Raymond Ebireri
The Super Falcons of Nigeria secured a vital 3-2 win over tournament co-host Australia in Brisbane. Barcelona Femeni’s Asisat Oshoala proved to be the difference as she came off the bench to score and grab an assist.
Australia’s chance of reaching the knockout phase on home soil is left hanging following their 3-2 defeat to Nigeria. The Aussies, who were missing captain and leading goal-scorer Sam Kerr, lacked any real bite in front of goal. However, they took the lead in the first minute of first-half stoppage time through Evan Egmond. Nigeria leveled shortly after through Uchenna Kanu following an assist from Rasheedat Ajibade.
Half-time was neatly poised at 1-1. Nigeria came out fired up after the break with the introduction of star girl Oshoala. First, she provided the assist for Osinachi Ohale to put Nigeria in front in the 65th minute before Oshoala herself got on the scoresheet, capitalizing on some sloppy defending at the back by the Australia defenders to put Nigeria 3-1 up in the 72nd minute. The victory already looked sealed despite Australia scoring a late consolation deep in stoppage time through defender Alanna Kennedy, who planted a header beyond the goalkeeper. Nevertheless, the Falcons held on in the final seconds to claim an impressive display in their ninth appearance at a World Cup finals.
Group B has been thrown open following today’s result. What’s next? Nigeria takes on the Republic of Ireland, who are already knocked out, while Australia battles Canada as they look to salvage their hope of qualification.
Super Falcons stun co-host Australia in thrilling Women’s World Cup fixture
