Nigeria’s Super Falcons have secured their spot in the round of 16 in the ongoing Women’s World Cup after a goalless draw against the Republic of Ireland at Suncorp Stadium in Milton, Australia.
Having garnered four points from their previous two games, Nigeria needed only to avoid defeat against Ireland to progress to the knockout stage, while Ireland’s elimination from the competition had been confirmed following their 2-1 loss to Canada in the previous match.
During the match on Monday, July 31, Ireland dominated possession despite already being eliminated after losing their opening two games at the World Cup.
The first attempt at goal came from the Irish in the fifth minute when Sinead Farrelly set up Katie McCabe, who narrowly missed the target with a left-footed shot.
The Super Falcons came close to taking the lead ten minutes later, but Asisat Oshoala’s effort went wide IN the first half, having been put through on goal by Uchenna Kanu.
Nigeria’s most significant chance of the game came after halftime when Toni Payne delivered a cross that Uchenna Kanu met with her head, only to be denied by Ireland goalkeeper Courtney Brosnan, who tipped the ball onto the underside of the crossbar.
Oshoala had another opportunity shortly after, while Denise O’Sullivan saw a close-range shot blocked when the Irish fashioned their best chance of the second half.
Nigeria held on to the goalless draw, securing their place in the round of 16 having finished second in the group behind Australia, who defeated Canada 4-0 in their group game.
The Super Falcons are now set to face the winner of Group D, which includes England, Denmark, China, and Haiti, in the next stage of the tournament on August 7th.
KanyiDaily had reported how the Super Falcons of Nigeria humbled Australia 3-2 in a Group B game at the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
