The Super Falcons on Monday played a goalless draw against the Republic of Ireland to advance to the Women’s World Cup knockout stage.
The Nigerian female team advanced to the knockout stage with 5 points garnered from two draws and one win.
There were joyous scenes for Nigeria as their goalless draw with the Republic of Ireland saw them move into the Women’s World Cup knockouts.
Uchenna Kanu had Nigeria’s best chance during the second half of the encounter, only for Courtney Brosnan to pull off a fine save. For Ireland there was the consolation that this was their first-ever point recorded at the showpiece event.
Nigeria saw out a goalless draw with the Republic of Ireland to pick up the point they needed to reach the last 16 of the Women’s World Cup.
Ireland, despite already being eliminated after losing their opening two games, dominated possession and almost led inside the opening five minutes, but Katie McCabe drove a low shot just wide.
Asisat Oshoala also shot wide with Nigeria’s best chance of the first half, having been put through on goal by Uchenna Kanu.
The Super Falcons were sharper after the break and Kanu looked to have broken the deadlock with a downward header – only for Courtney Brosnan to spectacularly tip onto the crossbar.
With Australia dispatching Canada in Group B’s other match, Nigeria finish second and will play the Group D winners – who could be England – in the last 16.
Ireland finish bottom of the group, but this is their first-ever point at a Women’s World Cup.
