Izuchukwu Okosi
The Super Falcons of Nigeria on Monday booked their place in the round of 16 of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand after a scoreless draw against already eliminated Republic of Ireland reports Prime Business Africa.
The Falcons had drawn their first Group B game, 0-0 draw against Olympic champions, Canada, before a 3-1 win over co-hosts Australia in the second group game.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe nine-time African champions required to avoid a defeat against the Europeans to be guaranteed of a place in the second round and were disciplined against the debutants for the entirety of the contest.
Randy Waldrum started Barcelona Femini star, Asisat Oshoala from kickoff and flanked by Rashhedat Ajibade and Uchenna Kanu.
Ifeoma Onumonu and Monday Gift were only introduced in the second half by the American tactician.
Nigeria thus completed a World Cup group stage unbeaten for the first time in the nation’s history.
The Irish team were the more adventurous side in the first half, barring a fine effort by Asisat Oshoala who was teed up by midfielder Toni Payne.
Ireland captain, Matie McCabe in particular posed a dangerous customer for the Nigerian team but the Nigerian defence was resolute in keeping the ambitious opposition at bay.
Uchenna Kanu thought she had put Nigeria ahead a minute into the second half but her textbook header was magnificently saved by Courtney Brosnan in goal for Republic of Ireland.
The Falcons will now play the winners of Group D which will be decided on Tuesday with England and Denmark the likely teams to qualify from the pool.
In the other Group B game which was played simultaneously, Australia beat Canada 3-0 to top the group on 5 points as the Super Falcons but enjoyed superior goal difference at the expense of the impressive Falcons.
Izuchukwu Okosi is a Nigerian sports and entertainment journalist with two decades of experience in the media industry having begun his media journey in 2002 as an intern at Mundial Sports International (MSI) and Africa Independent Television (AIT), owners of Daar Communications Plc.
