In an exciting match on Friday morning at the Melbourne Rectangular Stadium, Chiamaka Nnadozie made a penalty kick save to keep the Super Falcons from losing to the Olympic winners Canada, 0-0.
Deborah Abiodun was ejected from the Super Falcons late in the game for an unsportsmanlike challenge, leaving them with 10 players.
In the opening 20 minutes of play, Canada dominated, advancing the ball with assurance, quickness, and accuracy.
Early on, seasoned attacker Christine Sinclair almost gave Canada the lead but her shot went wide.
After gaining control of the game, the Super Falcons created the superior scoring opportunities.
In the 20th minute, Kailen Sheridan parried Ifeoma Onumonu’s long-range effort in order to give the ball to the other team’s corner.
Sheridan was tested seven minutes later by a low drive from Sevilla midfielder Toni Payne.
Asisat Oshoala missed a tight-angle goal attempt 10 minutes before halftime as the Super Falcons increased their assault on the Canada defenders.
In the 41st minute, Oshoala nudged the ball past the keeper, but Ashley Lawrence deflected Oshoala’s attempt away from goal.
After a VAR review, Canada was given a penalty early in the second half, but Nnadozie made a fantastic save to keep Sinclair from converting.
In the 54th minute, a harsh tackle by Tosin Demehin resulted in his first penalty of the match.
A VAR review led to D Abiodun’s dismissal late in the game.
Despite the inability to break the tie, both clubs are confident going into their upcoming matches thanks to a valiant effort.
On Thursday, July 27, the Super Falcons’ subsequent game will be against co-hosts Australia.
The same day, Republic of Ireland, who are making their debut, will play Canada.
