In a stunning display of skill and determination, Nigeria claimed a momentous 3-2 victory over Australia, making it one of their most significant wins in the Women's World Cup and putting the co-hosts' tournament aspirations in jeopardy.
The match took place at Brisbane Stadium, with an electric atmosphere fueled by nearly 50,000 spectators. The majority of the crowd were hoping to witness Australia sealing a spot in the knockout stages.
The home side got off to a promising start as Emily van Egmond netted a goal in the first minute of first-half injury time. However, Uchenna Kanu quickly leveled the score before half-time, and in the second half, Osinachi Ohale nudged Nigeria ahead.
As the tension rose, Barcelona forward Asisat Oshoala came on as a second-half substitute and made a game-changing impact. She capitalized on a defensive mix-up in the 72nd minute, skillfully beating three Australian players to the ball and sneaking a right-footed shot inside the near post from an acute angle. Her brilliant goal widened Nigeria’s lead, and in her jubilation, she removed her jersey and received a yellow card in the process.
Despite facing a deficit, Australia refused to back down and fought fiercely to cut the gap to just one goal. Alanna Kennedy’s header found the back of the net in the 10th minute of stoppage time, creating a nail-biting finish to the match.
“Everyone went out to play their heart out,” Oshoala said after the game. “This team has a lot to offer, and the world has seen that today.”
“I want to fight for this badge – this is, you know, the best country in the world. Nigeria for life!”
Ultimately, Nigeria managed to hold on in the final moments, securing a share of the top spot in Group B alongside Canada. Both teams have accumulated four points from two games, one more than Australia. The 11-time African champions will face Ireland, who has been eliminated, in their last group match.
“[Nigeria] was great on the counter, and they finished their chances,” said Steph Catley, who is leading the team in the absence of Captain Sam Kerr. “We’ve just got to move on as quickly as possible – on to Canada now. This is what World Cups are all about.”
