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Ireland fire Women’s World Cup warning signal to Nigeria with win over Zambia
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
Republic of Ireland have sent a stern Women’s World Cup warning to Nigeria with a 3-2 comeback victory over Zambia in an international friendly match on Thursday.
The Super Falcons are drawn against the debutants Ireland at this summer’s FIFA Women’s World Cup and the Europeans stepped up their preparations with a triumph over the African bronze medalists.
The African side opened the scoring in the 16th minute as Barbara Banda’s cross hit goalkeeper, Courtney Bosnan into the back of the net.
The Copper Queens went into the dugout with a slim lead to the worry of Vera Pauw’s side.
Pauw introduced Amber Barrett as half time substitute and the change paid off in the 49th minute as Barrett equalised from the penalty spot after a Zambian defender handled the ball in the box.
Claire O’Riordan headed in the Europeans’ second to take the lead for the first time in the game in the 64th minute.
Barrett’s strike inside the box increased Ireland’s lead to 3-1 before Rachael Kundananji reduced the deficit in the 79th minute.
The World Cup debutant, Ireland held on for a win in preparation for next month’s Word Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
The team is expected to release its final roster for the World Cup next week but will face 2019 Word Cup host, France in another friendly match to test its might.
Pauw’s side will face Nigeria, Canada, and Australia in Group B at the World Cup.
