Super Falcons sealed a spot in the round of 16 of the 2023 Women’s World Cup after a goalless draw with their European contingents, Northern Ireland
Randy Waldrum’s team needed a draw to be sure of the next round passage and made history by avoiding defeat in three consecutive World Cup matches for the first time.
The Falcons had to endure an early minute of pressure from the Irish captain, Katie McCabe almost gave her side the lead when she attempted a low driving show which fizzled past the post.
However, in the 14th minute, Asisat Oshoala had the chance to put Nigeria in the lead after Kanu picked up a misplaced pass. which found the Barcelona forward, whose misplaced effort whistled past the left post.
The Nigerians failed to maintain any form of dominance in possession as Angela Platt’s team continued to make their intentions known but were guilty of being lethargic at goal
Nigeria’s forward #08 Asisat Oshoala (L) shoots on goal during the Australia and New Zealand 2023 Women’s World Cup Group B football match between Ireland and Nigeria at Brisbane Stadium in Brisbane on July 31, 2023.
Super Falcons came out with some change in pace and urgency in attack. It didn’t take them too long with Tony Payne who has been a revelation in the tournament whipped as a teasing ball into the box from the left, Payne got up well to head it from close range but the Northern Ireland shot-stopper Brosan pulled off a superb save to deflect the ball onto the crossbar.
Michelle Alozie continued to make a nuisance of the Irish defence by whipping the ball into the box from the byline, but there were no Nigerian players to meet it.
Nigeria’s goalkeeper #16 Chiamaka Nnadozie (L) punches clear before Ireland’s forward #18 Kyra Carusa (C) can head the ball during the Australia and New Zealand 2023 Women’s World Cup Group B football match between Ireland and Nigeria at Brisbane Stadium in Brisbane on July 31, 2023. (Photo by Patrick Hamilton / AFP)
The Super Falcons will face the winner of Group D in the last 16.
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