Women’s World Cup: Super Falcons draw Ireland to qualify for last 16

The Super Falcons have qualified for the round of 16 of the ongoing FIFA Women’s World Cup.

The Nigerians secured their place in the round of 16 after a goalless draw on Monday against the Republic of Ireland at Milton, Australia’s Suncorp Stadium.

Gaining four points from the previous two games, Nigeria needed to simply avoid defeat against Ireland to progress to the knockout stage.

Ireland’s elimination from the competition had been confirmed after the 2-1 loss to Canada in their previous game.

Asisat Oshoala led the Falcons’ attack, replacing Ifeoma Onumonu in the starting lineup.

Ireland dominated the match early on despite their World Cup campaign coming to an end.

After Sinead Farrelly cut the ball back to Katie McCabe near the edge of the Nigerian goal area in the fifth minute, the Irish were awarded the game’s first shot on goal.

The Ireland captain missed the goalpost with a left-footed attempt.

Ten minutes later, Oshoala’s attempt for the Falcons nearly gave them the lead, but it missed the mark.

After the intermission, the Nigerians got their best opportunity of the game. Uchenna Kanu intercepted a pass from Toni Payne, but Ireland’s Courtney Brosnan saved the shot.

Oshoala drew another chance wide immediately after that as the Falcons held on for the brickmanship result that secured them a place in the round of 16.

The Nigerians finished second in the group behind Australia, who defeated Canada 4-0 in the group game.

The Falcons will face the winner of Group D — England, Denmark, China, and Haiti — on August 7.