‘We were ready to die’ – Christy Ucheibe recounts Nigeria comeback win over Australia

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

Nigeria midfielder, Christy Ucheibe has expressed her joy after the Super Falcons’ 3-2 win over 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup co-hosts, Australia at the Lang Park in Brisbane on Thursday.

Randy Waldrum’s side claimed their first win at the 32-nation competition holding Down Under, shocking co-host Australia, putting the Maltidas’ chances of securing a fifth Women’s World Cup knockout stage qualification in jeopardy.

Ultimately, a Sam Kerr-less Australia couldn’t help but succumb to a spirited African side, whose hopes of qualifying for the knockout stage in consecutive Women’s World Cup remains alive.

Following the epic triumph, the SL Benfica midfielder says the team is ready to give it all at the tournament in the bid to boost its fading reputation on the global stage.

“I am happy and proud of myself and also proud of my teammates and everyone that took part in this great victory against Australia the hosting team,” Ucheibe exclusively told NigeriaFootball.

“Well, everyone can think and say whatever they want, it is their opinion and thoughts. It is a competition and we are here for the trophy and to compete as one of the best teams in the world.

“We are the pride of Africans here on the world stage, and it is also a dream of every girl child to play football at the highest level. It is also an honor to represent their country at this time, so we were all ready to die and to give it all for the badge.”

Emily Van Egmond gave the Aussies the lead in the additional time of the first half but Uchenna Kanu level on the brink of half time and the former Nasarawa Amazons star explained their second half hard-fought superb display over the host nation in Brisbane.

“Struggling and the ability to bounce back is all part of the game,” she continued.

“That’s where a team’s mental strength is put to test. The coach told us things we needed to do better and improve on, and that’s what we did.

“We players promised to give it all till the very end, can’t be more proud of this team.”

Nigeria are now on a five-match unbeaten streak, with the chance to go one better in the decisive tie against the Ireland as the team seats top of Group B ahead of Monday’s final group game.

“Being at the top of the table with 4 points is a great feeling for us team Super Falcons,” she added.

“We are here to make history for us and the whole Africans. We will do our best because we have what it takes as a team to accomplish our main  goals.”