Nigeria Edges Past Australia 3-2: Matildas in a Struggle to Secure Last 16 Spot at Fifa Women’s World Cup

In the history of the Women’s World Cup, Nigeria’s finest hour was in 1999 when they advanced to the quarter-finals.

In a thrilling encounter, Nigeria bounced back from a goal down to triumph over Australia, leaving the joint hosts striving to make it to the final 16 in the Fifa Women’s World Cup.

Australia took the lead when Emily van Egmond capitalized on Caitlin Foord’s assist.

However, Nigeria retaliated swiftly with a composed strike from Uchenna Kanu, followed by Osinachi Ohale’s header, bringing the score to 2-1.

An unfortunate blunder between Australia’s Alanna Kennedy and Mackenzie Arnold led to Asisat Oshoala scoring, and despite a late goal from Kennedy, Nigeria clung on to their lead.

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Now Nigeria tops Group B, tied with Canada at four points, while Australia is a point shy before the final group matches on Monday.

A clash against Canada awaits Australia in Melbourne, where they will need a win to ensure their progression to the knockout stages. Meanwhile, Nigeria will face the already ousted Republic of Ireland simultaneously in Brisbane.

Stay tuned for more updates.

Team Line-ups

Match Statistics

Live Commentary
Host Team
Australia
Visiting Team
Nigeria
Ball Possession
Host
64%
Visitor
36%
Shot Attempts
Host
28
Visitor
11
Shots on Target
Host
8
Visitor
6
Corner Kicks
Host
15
Visitor
2
Fouls Committed
Host
5
Visitor
8

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