“They were well organized” – England coach Wiegman heaps praise on Nigeria

By Wale Mustapha

Head Coach of England women’s national team, Sarina Wiegman has lauded the Nigeria’s Super Falcons for their impressive performance after both sides’ encounter in the second round of 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup on Monday.

The two sides played out a goalless draw in the normal time in Brisbane. The Three Lionesses ended the match with 10 players after Lauren James was sent off for standing on Michelle Alozie.

No goals were scored in extra-time with England eventually holding their nerve to win the penalty shootout 4-2.

Wiegman admitted she was not concerned by her side’s performance and went on to heap praises on opponents Nigeria for their impressive Women’s World Cup campaign.

“I’m not worried (about the performance), it was a really intense game,” Wiegman said.

“If we say I was worried then we underestimated Nigeria. They did really well in the group stage as we all saw, so we were not underestimating them at all.

“They showed tonight what a good team they have; they were very well-organised, very physical, very athletic, pressed high and we had trouble getting out of that press.

“We could do a little better but you have to give them the credit for how well they got back after we did get out of that first press and kept the ball and created chances. They did really well.

“The game was equal and they were very transitional, so at moments where we lost the ball, they were really quick.

England will be taking on the winner between Jamaica and Colombia in the quarterfinal.