- Chiamaka Nnadozie was the star of the show for Nigeria in their first World Cup match, making a number of impressive saves, including a double save from Christine Sinclair’s penalty kick
- The Super Falcons are in high spirits after their draw with Canada and are looking forward to their next match against Australia
- Nigeria will be without Rasheedat Ajibade and Halimatu Ayinde for their match against Australia, but they have a number of other talented players who are eager to get on the pitch
The day after an impressive start to their latest FIFA World Cup campaign, the Super Falcons are already looking forward to their second match of the big showpiece against co-host nation Australia on Thursday at Brisbane’s Lang Park.
Chiamaka Nnadozie is the big name on everyone’s lips in Brisbane, and even though the locals shout across the parks, ‘we’ll be there, no worries’, once they realise you’re a Nigerian, they still mutter under their breath, ‘You’ve got a great custodian’.
Coach Randy Waldrum handed the captain’s armband to the calm custodian after captain Onome Ebi was left on the substitutes bench, and she justified the confidence with a sterling performance, including a double save from iconic Christine Sinclair’s penalty kick five minutes into the second period.
The nine-time African champions are back in Queensland after a feat that left bookmakers scrambling for scrambled eggs, and they are looking forward to what will undoubtedly be an exciting encounter with the Matildas.
We are in very high spirits, I can tell you,” Ebi told thenff.com on the team’s return to Brisbane. “It is the day after that massive point and we are already looking forward to our second match. The Aussies will not be easy, but we knew before arriving in Australia that no team at this tournament will be easy.
On Saturday, the players were given the day off and only relaxed after the game that stunned the North Americans.
Even though Nigeria earned a point against the Olympic champions in Melbourne, the Super Falcons still have a number of top performers in their ranks who have yet to see action and are eager to get started.
Midfielders Christy Ucheibe and Deborah Abiodun were dominant in the early afternoon at the Rectangular, but suspended regulars Rasheedat Ajibade and Halimatu Ayinde are now available for selection, as are the versatile Jennifer Echegini and strong forward Desire Oparanozie.
“It’s a tournament, so we’re taking it one game at a time.” We need to go back and correct some mistakes, such as how to convert our opportunities. “We can’t afford to waste good chances any longer,” defender Osinachi Ohale said in Melbourne’s mixed zone.
Nigeria will face Australia at Lang Park Stadium on Thursday (11 a.m. Nigeria time), with the arena expected to be packed to capacity.