- Nigeria will continue their adventure at the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup after sealing their spot in the Round of 16 following a goalless draw against the Republic of Ireland in their Group B showdown at the Brisbane Stadium.
Having secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over Australia previously, the Super Falcons knew that avoiding defeat against Ireland would be enough to progress to the knockout stages.
Consequently, they adopted a more defensively solid approach in the first half, prioritising caution over an all-out attacking display.
Despite Ireland enjoying more possession in the first half, both teams struggled to find that elusive breakthrough in the final third.
Nigeria, however, came out stronger in the second half, creating some promising chances. A header from Uchenna Kanu nearly opened the scoring, but the Irish goalkeeper made a brilliant save, tipping it onto the crossbar.
Barcelona striker Asisat Oshoala also had opportunities, but her efforts narrowly missed the target. Despite their spirited efforts, the Nigerian girls couldn't find the decisive goal they needed to secure victory.
The draw was enough for Nigeria to make history as the first African team to advance to the Round of 16 in the Women's World Cup without suffering a defeat in the group stage. With two draws and one win, the Super Falcons qualified as Group B runners-up.
Australia, in the other group game, delivered an impressive performance by thrashing Canada 4-0 to finish as group winners.
Now, the Super Falcons set their sights on the first knockout round, where they will face the winners of Group D, most likely England.
