Nigeria rip up the script with stunning win in Brisbane

Nigeria ripped up the script in Group B of the World Cup with an enthralling 3-2 defeat of Australia in Brisbane.

Twenty-four hours after the Republic of Ireland's hopes of making the knockout stages were ended by Canada, the Nigerians pulled off a shock win to set up a fascinating final round of games.

They were level at the break. Emily van Egmond put the Aussies ahead in first-half stoppage time only for Uchenna Kanu to volley home an equaliser a couple of minutes later.

It was the introduction of Barcelona star Asisat Oshoala just after the hour mark that changed this absorbing game. Her presence led to Osinachi Ohale's scruffily putting Nigeria ahead on 65 minutes, before Oshoala confidently knocked home the killer third soon after.

Alanna Kennedy got one back with a header nine minutes into injury time, but they couldn't muster another goal in a nerve-shredding climax.

The Matildas would have sealed their place in the last 16 with a win here. Instead, they’re heading for a huge clash against Canada, who need a draw to progress.

Nigeria - the group’s fourth seeds - take on the Girls in Green knowing a point will also be enough for them to march on.

Any talk of that game being a dead rubber is now completely off the table. Australia and Canada will both be hoping for a favour from Vera Pauw's side as the Super Falcons dare to dream.