2023 Women’s World Cup: Nigeria starting XI vs Australia revealed

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

The Nigeria senior women’s national team starting lineup for its second Group B encounter against co-host, Australia at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup has been confirmed.

Coach Randy Waldrum made four changes to the team that secured a 0-0 draw with Olympic champions, Canada.

Penalty-saving goalkeeper and stand-in captain, Chiamaka Nnadozie retained her position as the team’s save hands in goal and the armband as well.

The defensive quartet of Ashleigh Plumptre, Osinachi Ohale, Tosin Demehin, and Michelle Alozie also stared as they did against Canada.

Christy Ucheibe, Toni Payne, and Ifeoma Onumonu remained Waldrum’s top choice in midfield and attack.

The duo of Halimatu Ayinde, Uchenna Kanu, and Rasheedat Ajibade returned to the starting lineup.

They replaced Francisca Ordega, Deborah Abiodun who was red-carded against Canada, and FC Barcelona forward, Asisat Oshoala who was reportedly unfit for the game but starts from the bench.

Ayinde and Ajibade returned to the team after completing their two-match suspension for a red card received against Morocco in the semi-final of the 2022 Women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

The game will kick off by 11:00 am Nigerian time on Thursday with the winner staking claim to a place in the Round of 16.

Canada tops the log with four points after a 2-1 win over the Republic of Ireland. The Matildas have three points, the Super Falcons have a point while Ireland are without any points in Group B.