LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – Nigeria’s Super Falcons concluded Group B unbeaten following Monday’s 0-0 tie against the Republic of Ireland at Brisbane Stadium.
The Super Falcons will now be confident about their chances in the Round of 16 as the point collected won them second place in their pool.
After earning a victory and two draws in their group, which is being led by Australia, who have just one point more than them, they remain unbeaten.
Nigeria entered this match without any pressure since they knew that a draw would be enough to advance them.
The Super Falcons have already advanced to the World Cup quarterfinals three times, and they will now want to top their performance from 1999 when they reached that stage.
With an early shot that barely missed the left upright post, Ireland skipper Katie McCabe put Nigeria to the test initially.
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After being set free by Uchenna Kanu, Asisat Oshoala attempted to score for the African giants in the 13th minute, but her strike whistled just wide.
Only one effort was made towards the goal in the first half, which was made by Kyra Carusa of Ireland for both teams.
Kanu believed she had given Nigeria the lead seven minutes into the second half, but Courtney Brosnan, the Ireland goalkeeper, and the crossbar combined to save her strike.
Soon after, Oshoala’s low attempt just missed the left post.
The Girls in Green proved to be no walkover and gave them a rough time, contrary to what Nigeria coach Randy Waldrum predicted on Sunday.
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Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has led his team well from the back in each of their three group games as captain.
She had a commanding presence in the background despite the fact that Ireland had few opportunities. Nnadozie has made a dramatic statement by keeping two clean sheets in two of three games.
With just one point to show for their efforts while in Australia/New Zealand, the whole Irish squad will now return home after failing to win a single game.
Nigeria has ample time to prepare as they advance to the Round of 16 and will play the Group D champion on Monday.