The Super Falcons of Nigeria again punched above their weights, by coming from behind to beat co-hosts Australia 3-2 in a very enthralling Group B match, of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, being co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand.
After soaking-up waves of pressure mounted by the Aussies from the blast of the whistle, the Falcons eventually fell behind to an Emily van Egmond opener in the first minute of added time; but the lead lasted just four minutes, as Uchenna Kanu getting to an end of a cross from Rasheedat Ajibade to restore parity for Nigeria before the interval.
The tide however changed so rapidly, in the second half after Assisat Oshoala and Esther Okoronkwo were subbed on, in an inch-perfect flip of the dice by Coach Randy Waldrum.
Woman-of-the-match, Osinachi Ohale made it 2-1 for Nigeria with a brave headed goal, in the 65th minute; before Oshoala responded to her critics by pouncing on a defensive glitch, to turk-in the third, 18 minutes from time.
Having smelt and seen blood, the Falcons who are rated 40 by FIFA, 30 placed below the Matildas continued to weather the torrents of attacks including corner kicks hauled at them, until the 10th minute of added time, when Emily van Egmond scored her second of the day to reduce the tally to 2-3; for the co-hosts who were backed throughout the match by vociferous home fans at the Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane; but are now facing a battle to qualify for the last 16 of the World Cup.
Having drawn their opening game as Olympic Champions Canada, Nigeria moved to the top of Group B on goal difference, level on 4 points with Canada, while Australia are a point behind in 3rd.
Group B final matches are scheduled for Monday, when Nigeria will need to avoid losing to already eliminated Republic of Ireland in Brisbane to advance to the Round of 16; while Australia and Canada are to be locked in a winner takes all, at the Rectangular Stadium in Melbourne.
