Australia’s hopes of qualifying for the knockout stages of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup were dealt a bitter blow as they were beaten 3-2 by Nigeria in Brisbane.
Mackenzie Arnold started between the posts at Suncorp Stadium as the co-hosts had the opportunity to secure qualification for the round of 16 with a victory on Wednesday, having already beaten the Republic of Ireland 1-0 in their opening match the tournament.
Things got off to a decent start for the Matildas when former Hammer Emily van Egmond opened the scoring just before half-time when she slotted home a pull-back inside the area.
However, Uchenna Kanu sneaked in at the back post to skilfully net an equaliser against the run of play before the half-time whistle sounded.
As expected, Tony Gustavsson’s team dominated the play and had plenty of opportunities but could not find a way through a stubborn Nigeria defence.
The Super Falcons flew ahead when Australia could not clear their lines, which allowed Rasheedat Ajibade to head the ball down and across the face of goal for Osinachi Ohale to run it into the net.
They added a third on 72 minutes. Asisat Oshoala was the lucky recipient when a mix up between Alana Kennedy and Arnold allowed her to ghost in behind and slot in from an acute angle.
Kennedy was able to head in a consolation from a corner deep into second half stoppage time, but Australia failed to add another and will now need to beat Canada on Monday 31 July in their final game of Group B to advance.
