Nigerian Super Falcons Draw Ireland to Qualify for Second Round of Women's World Cup

The Super Falcons of Nigeria managed goalless draw with the Republic of Ireland on 31 July 2023, to reach the second round of the Women's World Cup tournament. There were joyous scenes for Nigerians as their goalless draw with the Republic of Ireland bode well their 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.

A goalless draw with the Republic of Ireland is enough for Nigeria to pick up the point they needed to reach the last 16.

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. Denise O'Sullivan saw a close-range shot blocked when the Irish fashioned their best chance of the second half.

With the point earned from the draw, Nigeria is into the round of 16. The 40th-ranked team in the world avoided defeat in all three of its group-stage matches, including the shocking win over Australia.

Nigeria’s run is all the more surprising given the turmoil surrounding the team prior to the tournament. The team was able to put an ongoing pay dispute behind it and qualify for the knockout stage for the third time in its history. Meanwhile, as the runner-up in Group B, Nigeria will play the winners of Group D next Monday, 7 August 2023, in Brisbane.