2023 FIFA WWC: Australia go top of Nigeria’s group with 1-0 win over Ireland

Caretaker July 20, 2023

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Nigeria’s second group B opponents Australia defeated debutants Republic of Ireland 1-0 to get 2023 FIFA World Cup campaign to the best possible start on Friday July 21.

The match at the Stadium Australia in Sydney was a fierce battle between two committed teams.

Despite only playing their first ever FIFA Women’s World Cup match today, Ireland showed great discipline for 45 minutes, and then gave all they had in the final 20 to rescue a result after falling behind and even had a goal chalked off.

Australia had the upper hand for most of the night, but created very little in the absence of inspirational skipper Sam Kerr.

In the first half they looked unable to change their game plan when Ireland denied them the space they crave, and then they were forced to hang on nervously at the death.

For the winning goal, matchday skipper Steph Catley slotted home from the penalty spot in the 50th minute.

Australia look to keep the ball moving in the middle third until Cooney-Cross spotted the darting Raso, who was bundled over in the box by Sheva for the penalty kick.

Catley stepped up to fire a belter into the top corner to send the Matildas top of group B with Canada and Nigeria playing by 3:30am on Friday.