There was wild jubilation on Wednesday in the Super Falcons’ camp in Rennes, France as Argentina and Scotland played out a dramatic 3-3 draw in their final Group D match at the ongoing Women’s World Cup.
The Argentines, who had a point before their encounter and a mathematical chance of qualification to the round of 16, found themselves on the backfoot as the Scottish cruised to a 3-0 lead before the South Americans staged a late fightback to force a 3-3 draw.
A live Instagram video recorded by Super Falcons captain, Desire Oparanozie, showed the Falcons in wild jubilations five minutes to the end of the game.
They were seen jumping out of their room, hugging and chanting victory songs, knowing that the hopes of qualifying for the round of 16 have been brightened.
They rejoiced that the same rule which almost got them knocked out of the competition favoured them with the referee ordering a retake of Argentina’s penalty, which was earlier parried by the Scotland’s goalkeeper.
However, there are worries among the country’s football fans over the fate of the Super Falcons qualifying for the round of 16 at the ongoing Women’s World Cup in France.
After France beat the Falcons 1-0 on Monday night in their last Group A game, the African champions have three points and minus two goals difference and could only qualify for the round of 16 as a best loser.
For finishing third in the Group A, the Falcons’ chances of qualifying became slim and depend on the outcome of matches from other groups.
Of the best third-placed teams needed, two slots have already been filled by Brazil and China with six and four points respectively.
With the 3-3 draw played by Argentina and Scotland on Wednesday, Nigeria have a brighter chance of winning.
For the African champions to qualify now, New Zealand hold Cameroon to a draw or if either side win, but not with three goals margin.
Also, Thailand should not lose by more than three goals to Chile having earlier conceded 17 goals already.
