Four observations as glory-chasing Super Falcons progress to the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup knockout round

A 0-0 draw vs Ireland was enough to send Nigeria in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup knockout round. Here are four observations from the group stage performance by the glory-chasing Super Falcons.

JOB DONE – BUT NEED FOR IMPROVEMENT

The Super Falcons of Nigeria may have got the job done with a 0-0 draw vs Ireland on Monday July 31, but there will be need for improvement especially in attack ahead of the next round.

Nigeria did well to create some chances but unlike the game vs Australia, the Falcons failed to convert with superstar Asisat Oshoala the main culprit at the Brisbane Stadium.

PAYNE-PAIN FOR OPPOSITION PLAYERS

In all three group stage games of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, Nigeria’s Toni Payne has caused pain to opposition players with her speed, agility and creativity.

Against the Republic of Ireland , Payne was her amazing self and was by every standard the best player on the turf in Brisbane.

This Payne-Pain must continue in the last-16 if Nigeria must continue it’s chase for glory at the World Cup.

OSHOALA IN THE STARTING XI 

For the second of three games, African footballer of the year Asisat Oshoala has not delivered her best performance after being named in the starting XI.

In the second game vs Australia, the forward came off the bench to inspire the Super Falcons to victory over the Matildas.

Just maybe the best system for her at this tournament, or is it not better to have her come off the bench to shine than start and struggle to replicate the form that has sustained her rating as the best African female player.

A COLLECTIVE BUNCH – MAJOR SOURCE OF STRENGTH 

This Super Falcons set play for each other – a collective bunch.

Less of individualism but players doing their very best to complement each other to achieve the teams objective.

From their speech and on-field performances, it is obvious this ladies are a closely knit group ready to fight for each other.

With this collectivism as their major source of strength, Canada was held while an even better performance led to a 3-2 win vs Australia before the job was done with the draw against Republic of Ireland.

If they play this way, it will be difficult for any team to defeat Nigeria. Possible but difficult.