The Nigeria Women’s National Team reminded the world why they are the best team in Africa by fashioning a 2-3 win over co-hosts Australia. Despite being the only African team at the World Cup that did not collect a 2022 WAFCON medal, the Super Falcons have not disappointed.
The Matildas got the opening goal in first-half added time when Emily Van Egmond ghosted into Nigeria’s penalty box to fire past Chiamaka Nnadozie. Australia’s lead did not last long, as Uchenna Kanu was in the right place at the right time to tap home the equalizer for the African side from a Rasheedat Ajiaba cross.
Just after the hour mark, Nigeria made two substitutions as they introduced Asisat Oshoala and Esther Okoronkwo into the match.
The Super Falcons were already reaping the rewards of those changes as Osinachi Ohale converted a header to give them a 2-1 lead at 65 minutes. Just seven minutes later, Nigeria was in wonderland as talisman Oshoala chipped the ball into the Matildas’ net for a third.
Australia was staring down defeat at the hands of the Super Falcons in their own backyard. Despite some late pressure to try to salvage a point, the hosts only managed to grab a consolation via Alanna Kennedy.
Oshaola reacts to Super Falcon’s comeback win
Reacting to the win, Oshaola said, “Everyone went to play their hearts out. This team has a lot to offer, and the world has seen that today.”
The five-time African Footballer of the Year award winner revealed that “I wasn’t feeling too well” and was proud that everyone stepped up.
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As things stand, Nigeria’s historic win places them at the top of Group B with four points, followed by Canada in second place with as many points. Australia’s defeat put them out of the qualification spots by three points, while the Republic of Ireland remains without a point.
The Super Falcons could be well on course to emulate their iconic run to the FIFA Women’s World Cup quarterfinals in 1999. All that’s needed is a positive result against debutants Ireland on Monday at the Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane.
