Randy Waldrum’s team needed a draw to ensure advancement.
The Super Falcons qualified for the round of 16 of the 2023 Women’s World Cup after a goalless draw with their European counterparts, Northern Ireland.
Randy Waldrum’s team needed a draw to ensure advancement.
Katie McCabe, the Irish captain, almost gave her side the lead early on when she attempted a low driving display that fizzled past the post.
However, in the 14th minute, Asisat Oshoala had a chance to put Nigeria ahead after Kanu picked up a botched ball. It found the Barcelona forward, whose misdirected effort whistled past the left post.
The Nigerians failed to establish any type of possession dominance as Angela Platt’s squad continued to make their intentions clear but were guilty of being lazy at goal.
The Super Falcons attacked with a faster pace and greater urgency. Tony Payne, who has been a revelation in the competition, blasted a tantalising pass into the box from the left, Payne got up well to head it from close range, but Northern Ireland shot-stopper Brosan pulled off a wonderful save to deflect the ball onto the crossbar.
Michelle Alozie continued to annoy the Irish defence by sending the ball into the box from the byline, but there were no Nigerian players to meet it.
The Super Falcons will face the winner of Group D in the last 16.
