Australia 2 Nigeria 3: Kanu, Ohale, Oshoala on target as Super Falcons secure statement win

In a highly captivating encounter, Nigeria staged a remarkable comeback to secure a thrilling 3-2 victory against Australia in their second Group B game of the 2023 Fifa Women's World Cup at the Brisbane Stadium (Brisbane) on Thursday afternoon.

The Super Falcons, determined to boost their chances of qualifying for the round of 16, faced the challenge of not having their star player, Asisat Oshoala, in the lineup.

Her absence significantly altered the team's dynamics, as she is known for providing a crucial outlet in their attacking play.

The match began with Australia showing their intent, starting brightly and earning an early corner.

However, Nigeria's goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, was quick to clear Stephanie Catley's whipped ball, preventing an early setback for the Super Falcons.

Despite Australia having numerous touches in the Nigeria box during the opening minutes, the Super Falcons' defense remained resolute.

Gradually finding their rhythm, Nigeria began to grow into the game, gaining possession and making incursions into the attacking third.

Uchenna Kanu's dangerous ball across the face of the goal lacked a quick-reacting teammate, denying the Super Falcons a promising opportunity.

In the 16th minute, Nigeria earned their first corner of the match, resulting in a scramble around the box.Unfortunately, the chance went abegging as Australia managed to clear their lines. 

Just a minute later, the Super Falcons squandered their best chance of the game when Uchenna Kanu found herself through on goal and one-on-one with the Australia keeper, only to slip and send the ball out of play.

As the match progressed, emotions ran high, and Michelle Alozie became the first player to receive a booking in the 21st minute.

Her outstretched leg caught Cortnee Vine, leaving the Australia midfielder in need of treatment.

Despite Australia's continued dominance, Nigeria's resilient defending frustrated their opponents, who resorted to long-range efforts.

The first half concluded with added time, during which Australia capitalized on a penalty spot opportunity.

Caitlin Foord delivered a precise pass to Emily van Egmond, who calmly slotted the ball into the bottom right corner, beyond the reach of Chiamaka Nnadozie, giving Australia the lead in the first minute of first half stoppage time. 

However, Nigeria quickly responded in the four minutes later when Uchenna Kanu found herself unmarked at the back post, easily equalizing for the Super Falcons just before halftime.

As the second half commenced, both teams emerged with determination to seize control of the match.

The play opened up, and the contested ball brought out the best in both midfields.

Nigeria's Ajibade attempted a long-range effort, but it sailed over the crossbar in the 53rd minute. Australia, too, had their opportunities, but Nigeria's defense stood firm.

In the 62nd minute, Nigeria made a crucial substitution, introducing Barcelona superstar Asisat Oshoala for Uchenna Kanu,

Esther Okoronkwo also came on for Ifeoma Onumonu. The substitution proved to be a turning point for the Super Falcons, as they struck again in the 65th minute.

A deep corner caught the Australia defense off guard, and a bad parry from keeper Mackenzie Arnold allowed Osinachi Ohale to find the back of the net.

Despite injuring herself during the goal, Ohale continued to play on, displaying her determination to contribute to the team's success.

In the 72nd minute, Nigeria extended their lead through Asisat Oshoala. Mackenzie Arnold found herself in no-man's land as she attempted to clear a ball over the top, leaving substitute Oshoala with a tough angle to score from.

However, she managed to find the net despite the efforts of Arnold and Alanna Kennedy to clear the ball.

Trailing by two goals, Australia intensified their attacks, with Catley and Foord attempting to get their team back on level terms.

Both players came close, but their efforts sailed just above the crossbar. In a bid to capitalize on their height advantage, Australia brought on Clare Polkinghorne for Cortnee Vine, preparing to take a corner in the 82nd minute.

As the match entered its final minutes, Australia desperately sought a goal to salvage a draw and secure a place in the knockout stages.

With 11 minutes added for stoppage time, the tension in the stadium was palpable. However, Nigeria's defense held strong, denying Australia any further clear-cut opportunities.

In a last-ditch effort, Foord was unmarked at the back post but failed to generate enough power in her header, allowing Nigeria's keeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, to make a comfortable save.

Notably, Alanna Kennedy, a central defender playing as a striker, managed to score a late header for Australia in the ninth minute of second half stoppage time, bringing some consolation to a disappointing defensive display.

Ultimately, Nigeria's spirited performance and resilience led them to a remarkable 3-2 victory, coming from behind to secure a crucial win.

The Super Falcons will do battle with already eliminated Republic of Ireland in their last group game on Monday, July 31 at Lang Park in Brisbane. 

Hashim Kolawole

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