A point was all the Super Falcons got following a cagey affair against the Republic of Ireland at the Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane to book one of the two qualifying spots from Group B into the knockout stages of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, BSNSports.com.ng reports.
Following the stalemate, the Nigerian Women’s national side also extended their unbeaten run to six matches since the 1-0 win over Costa Rica back in February, winning four games and drawing two in that run.
Nigeria nearly got off to a perfect start when Asisat Oshoala broke free in behind the Irish defence, however, her effort went agonisingly wide, letting Ireland off the hook as they continued their search for a first-ever point at the Women’s Mundial.
Nigeria remained laid back in the early stages of the second half, looking largely uninspiring, and had a last-ditch Oluwatosin Demehin block to thank for denying Katie McCabe an opener for the Irish Ladies.
Nigeria simply needed a goal to snatch the top spot, but eventually settled for a goalless draw in Brisbane, which saw the team take second place on the Group B log.
The team must now wait patiently to know their possible opponent in the Round of 16, which is most likely the winner of Group D with England, Denmark and China all up for the grab.
