Nigeria’s Super Falcons are set to take on co-hosts Australia in a highly anticipated second-group match at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brisbane, as they continue their quest for a quarter-final ticket in what has already proven to be a challenging campaign.
The Nigerian team made their mark in the opening round of the tournament when they forced the Olympics champions, Canada, to a thrilling 1-1 draw. The Super Falcons’ resilience was showcased on the field, and goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie emerged as the hero of the game, saving a decisive penalty and the rebound from Canada’s star striker Christine Sinclair.
Head coach Randy Waldrum made strategic changes to the team that faced Canada, with Uchenna Kanu, Halimat Ayinde, and Rasheedat Ajibade returning from suspension to replace Francessa Ordega, Deborah Abiodun (who was serving a suspension), and the injured Asisat Oshoala. The latter, a Barcelona superstar striker and five-time African Women’s Player of the Year winner, will begin the match against Australia on the bench due to a knock she sustained in the previous game.
Nigeria’s starting XI for the match against Australia includes NNadozie in goal, supported by Alozie, Plumptre, Ohale, and Demehin in defense. Payne and Ayinde will anchor the midfield, while Uchiebe, Ajibade, Kanu, and Onumonu will spearhead the attacking lineup.
On the other side, Australia’s coach Tony Gustavssonn faces uncertainty over star striker Sam Kerr’s calf injury. The Australian team is hopeful that she can return before their final Group B match against Canada on July 31 in Melbourne. In another blow to the team, Kerr’s replacement, Mary Fowler, will also miss the clash against Nigeria due to injury.
Australia’s starting XI will feature Arnold guarding the goal, with Vine, Catley (c), Foord, and Van Egmond forming the defensive line. Kennedy, Hunt, Raso, Gorry, Carpenter, and Cooney-Cross are set to take the field as part of the midfield and forward positions.
Nigeria’s Super Falcons, boasting an impressive record as nine-time African champions, have proven to be the flag bearers for the continent in this World Cup so far. Among the African sides, they were the sole team to earn a point in the opening round, as Zambia, South Africa, and Morocco all suffered defeats.
Having participated in the World Cup seven times, Nigeria aims to advance to the second round this year. However, they find themselves in a tough Group B, which comprises formidable opponents like Australia, Canada, and the Republic of Ireland.
As the anticipation builds for the clash between Nigeria and Australia, football fans worldwide are eager to witness another exciting and fiercely contested match in this prestigious women’s football event. The fate of both teams hangs in the balance, and only time will tell who emerges victorious in this crucial encounter.
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