Canada's Jessie Fleming expected to play in Wednesday's pivotal match vs. Ireland at Women's World Cup

In need of points to keep its World Cup dream alive, Canada has to put it best foot forward Wednesday against Ireland after the frustration of a tournament-opening scoreless draw with Nigeria.

"We're looking to put on a dominant performance," said Canadian fullback Ashley Lawrence.

With only one point in the bank and No. 10 Australia awaiting in its final Group B game in Melbourne, the seventh-ranked Canadians need to get into high gear. With key players missing and others short on playing time after lengthy injury absences, Canada looked slightly out of sync against No. 40 Nigeria.

That result piled on the pressure for the game against No. 22 Ireland.

"We know we absolutely don't want to leave this pitch (Wednesday) without those three points," said Canada coach Bev Priestman. "It's an unbelievable opportunity for us to take a step forward."

WATCH: Coach Priestman on why Canada needs to be clear-headed vs. Ireland:

The Irish won't make it easy. Australia needed a penalty to edge a stubborn and well-drilled Ireland side 1-0 in its opening match. And the Irish pressed hard as the clock wound down, using their prowess at set pieces to make for a tense finale.

"They're a team full of heart, spirit and passion," said Priestman. "What I do know that is when we get tested by teams like that, you often see the best of this team."

Watch Soccer North Live Wednesday July 26th at 10:30 am ET on cbcsports.ca and the CBC Sports YouTube Channel for post-match analysis of Canada vs. Ireland with Andi Petrillo and Diana Matheson.

Priestman praised Ireland for what she called its "We'll do whatever it takes not to concede" mindset.

That fire was shown by Irish centre back Louise Quinn, who put her body on the line against the