WOMEN’S WORLD CUP
Duro Ikhazuagbe
Nigeria’s Super Falcons defeated co-hosts Australia 3-2 to join Canada on four points on top of Group B of the ongoing 9th FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brisbane, Australia.
Against the run of play and expectations, the nine-time African champions came back from a goal down to tie the match 1-1 at half time.
It was much vilified Uchenna Kanu that cancelled out Australia’s opener by Emily Van Egmond five minutes in the added time of the first half.
After soaking much pressure from the Matildas, Osinachi Ohale put Nigeria ahead for the second goal when she headed in Rasheedat Ajibade’s lob from the left in the 65th minute.
With the entire Brisbane stadium unrelenting in rooting for the Matildas, Barcelona Femeni forward, Asisat Oshoala, who just came on for Kanu got on the score sheet after cashing on a defensive mix up to put the scores at 3-1 for Super Falcons.
She flicked the ball from a tight angle on the right for a sweet goal.
Australia however came out smoking to reawaken their dream of making it to the knockout stage.
In a shocking manner, 11 minutes were added to the regulation time.
Defender A. Kennedy, who came in as a late substitute, got the consolation second goal for Australia with just a minute left to play.
Nigeria held on till the final whistle 3-2.
Super Falcons are now tied on same four points as Canada that they played a draw game with in their opening match with Australia now third on three points.
Republic of Ireland that Nigeria are going to play in their final Group B match are without a point.
It remains an uphill task for Australia as they will play Canada who are the Olympic champions in a bruising last match of the group.
