No one predicted a goalless draw against Canada, but the Super Falcons put in a disciplined shift against the Olympic gold medallist- Canada, securing their first point of the game. This makes it the first time the Super Falcons did not concede a goal in the opening game of the FIFA World cup.
Australia, the co-host country, opened the group with a narrow-win against Ireland, they would be hoping to ride on with this momentum when they lock horns with the experienced African team in their next group game against Nigeria.
Playing Styles:
The Matildas play in a well-organised attacking style with fluid passing, quick build-up, and high pressing. Their offensive prowess is evident from their 12.7 shots per game and 14% goal conversion rate. Despite the absence of their star player Sam Kerr, their attack remains potent, as shown in their hard-fought 1–0 victory against Ireland. The immense support from home crowds boosts their morale, making them a formidable contender in the tournament.
On the other hand, the Super Falcons blend youth, experience, drive, and physicality, with a rock-solid defence launching quick counter-attacks. Ajibade’s return adds creativity to Nigeria’s attack led by F.C. Barcelona’s Oshoala. Their impressive defensive display against Canada in their opener highlights their intent and determination, and having a reliable shot-stopper like Nnadozie makes the defence more compact.
The Falcons would be hoping to build on this solid display and gun for victory against the co-host who are still without their star striker. It will not be an easy task, however, if there is anything we have learnt from the ongoing tournament so far, it is that nothing is impossible until the final whistle is blown.
Form (last 5 matches): WWWLW
Having picked up the first 3 points against in their opening game, Australia will be looking to add to their tally and hopefully secure qualification before the last day.
Steph Catley: Versatility is the word that describes the Arsenal winger. Either she is playing as a winger, a wingback or a full back as she played in the first match, whoever is playing on her wing should be worried about her pace and trickery.
Ellie Carpenter: At the opposite end of Steph Catley is the Lyon defender-Carpenter. One of the many traits of Ellie is how quick she can quickly cover grounds. Nigeria Full-backs must be aware of her pace.
Caitlin Foord: With the absence of Samantha Kerr, Caitlin Foord partnered with Mary Fowler in the opening match, although it didn’t produce a goal, she would hope it yields more output in the next match.
How should falcons line up?
Goalkeeper: Nnadozie
Defenders: Imran, Demehin, Ohale, Alozie
Midfielders: Halimat, Uchebe, Ajibade
Attackers: Ordega, Asisat (Oparanozie), Payne
(4–3–3)
It would be great to have Uchenna Kanu and Desire Oparanozie as early subs depending on the swing of the game (that is if either of them don’t start as Asisat Oshoala is still in doubt) but it is important that Imuran replaces Plumptre as she is a better ball carrier. The return of Rasheedat Ajibade brings more creativity to the midfield, and she hopefully will be able to link up with the attackers to create scorable chances.
FINAL COMMENTS
Nigeria must elevate their game against Australia, focusing on attacking effectively, playing through the lines and creating more opportunities for Super Zee. The midfield should focus on dictating the game’s tempo, increasing possession, and generating more attacking plays than in their previous match. With the defenders replicating their impressive opening match performance and overloading the opponents defence with the wingbacks, Nigeria can dream of snatching their first win from the hosts.
Final score prediction, 2–1 in favor of the Super falcons.
