It’s David vs Goliath as Falcons dare Three Lionesses in Brisbane

Falcons

On paper, today’s game between Nigeria and England at the ongoing FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand looks like a classic David versus Goliath clash. The gap between both sides indicates that it is a mismatch, but it is not really that simple.

Among the battles today is the clash between Nigeria’s star player Asisat Oshoala against England’s defender and captain, Millie Bright, a fellow Ballon d’Or nominee like Oshoala.   Available to Waldrum for this important battle are midfield anchors Christy Ucheibe and Halimatu Ayinde, and attacking midfielder Rasheedat Ajibade, who are in the form of their lives.    According to statistics provided by thenff.com, Ucheibe excelled in 18 tackles in the group phase, while Ayinde had the highest passing accuracy in the match against Australia and won more possession against Republic of Ireland. They will form the first line of protection for in-form goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and defenders Osinachi Ohale, Oluwatosin Demehin, Michelle Alozie and Ashleigh Plumptre.   Many have argued that Oshoala performs is better when she comes in as a second half substitute, but it is left for Waldrum to choose between starting the Barcelona star or sticking with Ifeoma Onumonu, Toni Payne and Uchenna Kanu from the onset. Desire Oparanozie is also waiting on the wings for action in the game.    Victory in this game will rank the Class of 2023 as the most successful Senior Women National Team of Nigeria, as the squad would have achieved a first-ever knock-out stage win at football’s highest platform.   When the Class of 1999 reached the quarterfinals in the United States, the tournament was a 16-team event and they made the last eight straight from the group phase, following