Nigeria advances to round of 16 at Women’s World Cup with draw against Ireland
Brisbane, Australia (AP) — Pre-tournament underdog Nigeria used a scoreless draw in opposition to Ireland on Monday to advance to the spherical of 16 of the Women’s World Cup. The Super Falcons completed second in Group B behind match co-host Australia.
After a comparatively quiet first half, the Nigerians picked up the depth in hopes of scoring the purpose that will transfer the them to the highest of the group. A diving save from Ireland’s Courtney Brosnan within the 52nd minute stored her clear sheet intact and secured Ireland’s first level in its debut look on the match.
KEY MOMENTS
Nigeria got here closest to breaking the impasse when Toni Payne discovered the top of Uchenna Kanu. A diving stated by Courtney Brosnan was wanted to maintain the sport scoreless.
Each crew’s finest probability to attain within the first half got here inside the first quarter-hour from their respective star gamers. Ireland’s Katie McCabe was simply off course with a left-foot shot within the fifth minute and Asisat Oshoala couldn’t convert off a breakaway that got here 9 minutes later.
WHY IT MATTERS
With the purpose earned from the draw, Nigeria is into the spherical of 16. The Fortieth-ranked crew on this planet averted defeat in all three of its group-stage matches, together with a stunning 3-2 win over Australia.
Nigeria’s run is all of the extra shocking given the turmoil surrounding the crew previous to the match. The crew was capable of put an ongoing pay dispute behind it and qualify for the knockout stage for the third time in its historical past.
Ireland’s ladies’s crew heads dwelling after incomes one level in its first main international match. The crew will look to make use of the expertise gained to its benefit because it makes an attempt to qualify for its first ever Women’s European Championship in 2025.
WHAT’S NEXT
As the runner-up in Group B, Nigeria will play the winners of Group D subsequent Monday in Brisbane.
With its match over, Ireland will now shift its focus to qualifying for its first Women’s European Championship in 2025.
