Africa was enthusiastically hanging tight for a win at the ongoing FIFA Women’s World Cup™, after the continent’s representatives are struggling to get a first win in their first games. After Nigeria’s first match, in which they drew with Canada, much was expected of them in their next game.
The Super Falcons defeated the host nation of Australia by a score of 3-2 in their second Group B match on Thursday, July 27, 2023, at 8:00 p.m. (local time) at Brisbane Stadium, Brisbane / Meaanjin.
The Super Falcons prevailed 3-2 over the tournament’s co-hosts, scoring goals from Uchenna Kanu, Osinachi Ohale, and Asisat Oshoala.
Emily van Egmond scored the 50th goal of this Women’s World Cup. At the end of the first half, Nigeria scored an equalizer in the sixth minute of extra time.
After Caitlin Foord’s low cross into the penalty area, Emily van Egmond guided her shot past Chiamaka Nnadozie to give Australia the lead in the first minute of added time, but Nigeria equalized before the halftime whistle and scored twice in the second half to win Group B.
In a dramatic end to the first half, Van Egmond gave Australia the lead, but Nigeria scored twice in the second half to win.
However, in the sixth minute of extra time, Nigeria equalized when Uchenna Kanu scored after Rasheedat Ajibade’s shot deflected off the far post and through Steph Catley’s legs and past Mackenzie Arnold.
Asisat Oshoala’s introduction on 63 minutes promptly disrupted the Australian defense and Nigeria moved forward two minutes some other time when Osinachi Ohale, who was injured simultaneously, headed in at the far post after Ajibade’s header was driven away by Arnold.
On the 72nd minute, Oshoala upset Australia once more when she scored Nigeria’s third goal from a tight angle after Alanna Kennedy and Arnold mixed up.
Kennedy scored a late comeback, but the loss means that Australia must win their final group match against Canada in order to qualify for the last 16.
Interestingly, many people predicted that Australia would defeat Nigeria, but the Super Falcons prevailed thanks to their aggressiveness, determination, and eagerness. Osinachi Ohale of Nigeria was selected as the VISA Player of the Match in the interim.
“This team has a lot to offer, and the world has seen that today. I want to make sure I give everything, fight for my team-mates and fight for this badge.” Asisat Oshoala, one Nigeria’s goalscorers said.
Onome Ebi, the Super Falcons’ captain, stated that they had improved in all areas prior to the tournament; from defense to attack. She added that, the team were focusing on the small details which they don’t want to miss and repeat mistakes that they have had in the past.
The Super Falcons of Nigeria maintain that they should give a valiant effort and make their country and Africa proud during this World Cup. The mindset is to perform to their absolute best in order to win.
Although they did not perform at their best at the most recent TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, they believe the World Cup is a significant test for them.
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It is an opportunity not to fail once more, and are motivated hoist Nigeria’s flag to the highest point.
The players say; now that they have won against Australia, they need to do everything in their power to be physically and mentally ready for the next games.
Nigeria will play their final group match against Ireland on the 31st of July, 2023 at the Suncorp Stadium.
Winning Mentality:
In football games, goal scoring and a winning attitude are essential. The Super Falcons were aware of how crucial it was for them to win their second game against Australia.
Despite the fact that Nigeria gave up two goals, their creativity was crucial in creating chances to score. Their capacity to execute precise passes, crosses, and through balls enabled the team to score and broke open the opponent’s defense.
The team’s shooting and set pieces were average. Confidence, tenacity, and resilience were among the key components of the team’s winning mentality. The Falcons were able to recover from a setback and ultimately win with that attitude. Until the very end, the team never gave up.
It is anticipated that the team will defeat their next opponent in their final group game to advance to the next stage due to its winning culture, mental toughness, and upbeat attitude on the field.
