AUSTRALIA: The Olympic winners were upset in Melbourne when Nigerian custodian Chiamaka Nnadozie saved a penalty kick. Nigeria lost a point due to Deborah Abiodun’s dismissal but played bravely. Australia, Canada, and Nigeria each have one point. The Canadians’ next match is against the Republic of Ireland on July 26.
Captain Sinclair, a 40-year-old attacker with 190 goals for her country in 324 international appearances, aims to create history. She has scored at five FIFA World Cups. However, she was fouled by Francisca Ordega in the second half, leading to a penalty. Sinclair’s shot was saved by Nigerian goalie Nnadozie, who saved it brilliantly.
Nigeria’s coach, Randy Waldrum, praised Chiamaka’s save as one of the best by a young goalkeeper in the world. Nigeria, 33 places below Canada in the FIFA standings, played solid defence and denied Canada clear opportunities outside the penalty area. In the first half, Sinclair’s shot went wide, while Nnadozie stopped Evelyne Viens’ stabbing attempt.
The coach of Canada, Beverly Priestman, remarked, “We’ve got to move on very quickly. You can get lost and be really down on that.” Naturally, my staff and I are upset. None of us received three points. But in the end, we only scored one goal while stealing two from the opposing squad.
Asisat Oshoala of Barcelona was able to maneuver around Canadian custodian Kailen Sheridan during Nigeria’s best opportunity to score in the first half, but Ashley Lawrence blocked the forward’s attempt from a tight angle.
Nigeria’s VAR dismissed Abiodun’s foul on Lawrence, despite Lehtovaara’s yellow card. Nigeria managed to hold on, giving them hope of progressing out of their Women’s World Cup group for the third time in nine competitions.
Also Read: FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023: Complete Schedule, Groups, and Live Streaming Guide
