Women’s World Cup: How Nigeria’s Super Falcons defeated host nation, Australia, 3-2

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.

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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.

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 aged 41 years 112 days.

The Super Falcons now need only a draw to guarantee their spot in the knockout rounds, while Australia will need to beat Canada to advance.

Oshoala shirtless celebration sparks mixed reactions

Mixed reactions have trailed the shirtless celebration of Super Falcons’ Asisat Oshoala at the ongoing Women’s World Cup tournament in Australia and New Zealand.

The Barcelona forward, who came on as a second-half substitute, swooped in on a defensive mix-up in the 72nd minute and beat an Australian defender for pace, before slotting past the goalkeeper from a tight angle to hand the Super Falcons a 3-1 lead.

The 29-year-old pulled off her jersey and ran to the sideline to celebrate her goal with her teammates, getting a yellow card in the process.

Her iconic photo has since stirred fans on social media, with some questioning her faith and morality.