Match preview: Ireland vs. Nigeria - 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, Group B decider

• In what promises to be a thrilling encounter, Nigeria's Super Falcons and Ireland will clash in a high-stakes showdown on Monday, marking the final Group B fixture of the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup.

For Ireland, their debut appearance in the Women's World Cup is drawing to a close on a somber note.

Suffering defeats in their first two games, they opened their campaign with a narrow 1-0 loss to the hosts, Australia, followed by a 2-1 defeat against Olympic champions Canada on Thursday.

These back-to-back losses have resulted in Ireland's elimination from the group stage. 

Yet, despite their early exit from the tournament, the Irish girls remain determined to make history by securing their first-ever victory at a Women's World Cup.

In contrast, Nigeria's Super Falcons have been riding a wave of success in the competition so far, showcasing their prowess on both ends of the pitch.

The former African champions have collected four valuable points from their opening two games. The Falcons demonstrated their defensive tenacity by holding Canada to a goalless draw.

Subsequently, they exhibited their attacking prowess against Australia, mounting a remarkable comeback from a goal down to clinch a 3-2 victory, courtesy of strikes from Uchenna Kanu, Osinachi Ohale, and Asisat Oshoala.

As they gear up for their final group stage match, Nigeria's advancement to the last-16 lies in their own hands.

A victory or even a draw would secure their spot in the knockout stage. However, a loss would leave them dependent on the outcome of the other group game between Canada and Australia.

Nigeria's coach, Randy Waldrum, is expected to stick with the reliable back four of Michelle Alozie, Ohale, Oluwatosin Demehin, and Ashleigh Plumptre.

Barcelona striker, Asisat Oshoala, who made an impactful appearance as a substitute in the last match, is anticipated to rejoin the starting lineup after netting the third goal against Australia.

The crucial encounter between Ireland and Nigeria will kick off at 11 am (Nigerian time) at the Brisbane Stadium.