The Matildas of Australia clashed with the Super Falcons of Nigeria in their second FIFA Women's World Cup game, in what turned out to be a five-goal thriller.
Women’s World Cup: Super Falcons 🇳🇬 defeat host nation Australia 🇦🇺 3-2. pic.twitter.com/miffBAvK9x
— YabaLeftOnline (@yabaleftonline) July 27, 2023
Although the co-hosts opened the scoring, Randy Waldrum's girls fought tooth and nail for the win, earning all three points. Let's take a look at Australia vs the Super Falcons, as it happened.
Level at half-time
It may interest you to know that the Nigeria Super Falcons played out a goalless draw in their opening match against Canada. Despite being short-handed towards the end of that match, they held on for the draw. On the other hand, co-hosts Australia defeated the Republic of Ireland in their first group game, which means they led the group B standings after matchday 1.
Unsurprisingly, the Australians were the clear favourites to win Thursday's match; and as expected, they opened the scoring just after the 45 minute mark. However, the Super Falcons were back on level terms a few minutes later, as Uchenna Kalu scored the equalizer just before the half-time break.
At the end of the first half, the Matildas had 60 percent of the possession; they had registered a total of 12 shots, with two of those going on target. On the other hand, the Super Falcons had just three total shots, with one of those going on target.
Ohale, Oshoala fire Super Falcons to the top of the standings
Randy Waldrum made two substitutions 18 minutes after play restarted; bringing in Asisat Oshoala and Esther Okoronkwo. Interestingly, the Super Falcons found the net just a minute later, thanks to Osinachi Ohale. Despite the Australians' best efforts however, Asisat Oshoala doubled the Super Falcons' lead at the 72nd minute.
Asisat Oshoala came on less than 10 minutes and she’s already involved in 2 goals for Nigerian Super Falcons.
Let your apology be as loud as your disrespect! pic.twitter.com/XWogEZOZ4l
— LERRY (@_AsiwajuLerry) July 27, 2023
It's worth mentioning that the Matildas tried to claw their way back into the game, as Alanna Kennedy registered Australia's second goal a few minutes into stoppage time. Unfortunately for Tony Gustafsson's girls, the Super Falcons held on for all three points.
It may interest you to know that despite their loss, the Matildas were the dominant side; they had 64 percent of the ball, registering 28 total shots, with eight of those going on target. On the other hand, the Super Falcons were more efficient with their chances; as they bagged three goals from six shots on goal.
What this result means for the Super Falcons
THE SUPER FALCONS ARE ON TOP 💥#FIFAWWC | #SoarSuperFalcons pic.twitter.com/POk9J6lI4v
— Soar Super Eagles (@SSE_NGA) July 27, 2023
With Thursday's win in mind, the Super Falcons currently lead the Group B standings. To be fair, they are currently tied on points and goal difference with Canada. However, Randy Waldrum's girls have scored more goals, which gives them the edge over the Canadians.
On the other hand, the Matildas find themselves in third-place, with three points; they are followed by the Republic of Ireland, who have lost both of their group matches.
Interestingly, the Super Falcons will play their final group game at the Suncorp Stadium, where they'll face last-placed Canada. A draw will be enough to secure a place in the knockout stages; but there's also a scenario where Randy Waldrum's girls lose, and still make it through, depending on the outcome of the Australia vs Canada game.
This article was most recently revised and updated 3 months ago
