Super Falcons come from behind to crush Australian World Cup hopes

Uchenna Kanu (1st R) of Nigeria celebrates with teammates after scoring her team’s first goal during the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 Group B match between Australia and Nigeria at Brisbane Stadium on July 27, 2023 in Brisbane / Meaanjin, Australia. (Photo AFP)

Nigeria’s Super Falcons on Thursday came from a goal down to hand FIFA Women’s World Cup co-host Australia a crushing 3-2 defeat at the Lang Park Stadium in Brisbane.

Emily van Egmond had put the Matildas in front in the first minute of first half added time. But just when it seemed like the Aussies were going to go into the break ahead, Uchenna Kalu restored parity for the Nigerians in the fifth minute of first half stoppage time.

Osinachi Ohale then put the Super Falcons in front on 65 minutes before Asisat Oshoala, who came into the fray as a 64th minute substitute, capitalised on a mix-up in the Matildas’ backline to make it 3-1 for the Super Falcons.

Alanna Kennedy then pulled one back for Australia in the 10th minute of second half stoppage time but it was too little too late for the World Cup co-host.

Randy Waldrum, Head Coach of Nigeria, speaks to players in the huddle prior to the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 Group B match between Australia and Nigeria at Brisbane Stadium on July 27, 2023 in Brisbane / Meaanjin, Australia. (Photo: FIFA)

It was the first time in World Cup history that Africa’s most successful national team would be coming from behind to win a game at women’s football biggest stage.

The 90th minute introduction of Onome Ebi meant that the 40-year-old Nigerian defender became the second oldest player to appear at the World Cup.

The oldest player is Brazil’s Formiga, who lined up against France in 2019