The Super Falcons secured a spot in the round of 16 of the 2023 Women’s World Cup following a goalless draw with their European counterparts, Northern Ireland.
Randy Waldrum‘s team needed a draw to go to the next round, and they created history by not losing three consecutive World Cup games for the first time.
The Falcons had to withstand an early minute of pressure from Ireland’s skipper, Katie McCabe, who nearly gave her team the lead with a low driving display that faded beyond the post.
However, Asisat Oshoala had a chance to put Nigeria ahead in the 14th minute after Kanu scooped up a botched ball. It led to the Barcelona forward’s wayward effort, which whistled past the left post.
The Nigerians failed to establish any type of possession dominance as Angela Platt’s squad continued to make their intentions known but were lackluster at goal.
The Super Falcons attacked with a different speed and urgency.
Tony Payne, a tournament revelation, blasted a tantalising ball into the box from the left, Payne got up well to head it from close range, but Northern Ireland shot-stopper Brosan pulled off a wonderful save to deflect the ball onto the crossbar.
Michelle Alozie continued to annoy the Irish defense by zipping the ball into the box from the byline, but no Nigerian players were available to meet it.
In the final 16, the Super Falcons will face the victor of Group D.
