Ireland 0-0 Nigeria: Super Falcons book 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup knockout round spot
The Super Falcons of Nigeria secured a 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup spot with a 0-0 draw vs Ireland at the Brisbane Stadium on Monday July 31.
Nigeria superstar Asisat Oshoala had a good chance to fire the Falcons ahead in the 13th but was unlucky to have a her shot fly just wide of the left post.
Ireland despite dominating possession failed to penetrate the Nigerian defence line until the 32nd minute when Kyra sent a header straight at Chiamaka Nnadozie.
There was no breakthrough in the first half and so it finished Ireland 0-0 Nigeria.
In the second half, Nigeria had two great opportunities to go ahead in the 50th and 51st minute. Toni Payne did great work on the wings before sending a delivery for Uchenna Kanu.
Kanu headed down but was denied by a full stretched Irish goalkeeper, the rebound came off to the crossbar before being cleared to safety.
Oshoala was then played through but again shot off target from inside the six-yard.
Nigeria took charge from them on, Toni Payne pulling the strings from the midfield but the Irish backline was up and doing to complement the perfect goalkeeping.
With the clock ticking away, the Nigerian ladies were comfortable seeing out the point to book a 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup last 16 place.
It finished Ireland 0-0 Nigeria in the last group B match.
Unbeaten in the group stage, Nigeria will go through as group B runners-up with five points behind tournament co-hosts Australia who defeated Canada 4-0 in the other game.
