Nigeria secured their first win of the 2023 FIFAWWC after defeating joint hosts, Australia in their second group stage match. An enthralling game that sets up a drama in group B, as Nigeria, Canada and Australia all have a chance at qualifying for the round of 16.
Barcelona top scorer, Asisat Oshoala secures the first win for her country, Nigeria after coming on to score a goal that proved to be the winner in a 3-2 victory over Australia. The striker was not given a start but was brought on in the 63rd minute of the game, scoring Nigeria’s third goal in the 72nd minute.
Nigeria played her opening game of the tournament against Canada, a match which ended in a goalless draw. Oshoala played 89 minutes of that game before being subbed off, but the striker was unable to push her team to victory.
Their second game of the competition was played against joint hosts, Australia. And with a draw in their first game, any other result other than a win would put Nigeria on the verge of disqualification. The “Super Falcons” provided an amazing performance and won 3-2 to give the team a chance at qualification for the round of 16.
Oshoala who set the record of being the first African female player to score at three FIFA Women’s World Cup after her goal against Australia said in an interview: “I want to make sure I give everything, fight for my teammates, and for this badge. This is the best country in the world”.
Nigeria is currently top of the table of group B with 4 points, followed closely by Canada with 4 points, Australia sits in the third position with 3 points, and Ireland sits at the bottom of the table with 0 points.
Nigeria will face off against Ireland in their last game of the group stage. A match which will decide their fate going into the knockout stages. Qualification for Nigeria would see them play against the winners or runner-ups of group D: England, Denmark, China and Haiti.
