Latest News
Women’s World Cup – Nigeria vs Ireland Preview: Falcons eye Round of 16 berth
By Monsurah Olatunji
Nigeria will face off against Ireland in the final group game of the 2023 Women’s World Cup at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, Australia on Monday.
Both sides will be meeting for the first time in history, in an unprecedented matchup at the international level.
While the Irish team achieved a victory against an African opponent, Zambia, in 2023, the West African team has not had the opportunity to face a European team since 2021 when they drew with Portugal.
Nigeria produced the first major shock of the Women’s World Cup as they stunned Australia 3-2 in Brisbane to leave the co-hosts’ tournament hopes on thin ice and home fans reeling.
They only need a draw to secure their spot in the round of 16, which increases the expectations for the rest of the competition.
On the other hand, Ireland has faced difficulties in their campaign at the Women’s World Cup. After two games, the team is in 4th place in Group B, without earning any points. Their last result was a 2-1 defeat to Canada, a stumble that confirmed the elimination of the Irish team from the 32-nation tournament with one round in advance.
The Irish team showed a promising performance against Canada and will hope to wrap up their campaign with pride against Nigeria as they hunt for a first World Cup win.
Although, in the current tournament, Nigeria is standing out in Group B, occupying the first place with four points after two games, Ireland could upset the standings here with a win.
The World Cup heroes from Ireland may have lost their chance to advance to the round of 16, but this is only the beginning for them.
Despite the challenging campaign, some players have stood out in the Irish team. Katie McCabe, the midfielder from Arsenal, became the author of the team’s only goal in the tournament so far. Another athlete to highlight is Denise O’Sullivan, a midfielder from North Carolina Courage, who has a record of 18 goals in 104 games for the team.
The heartbroken stars of Ireland are prepared to complete their World Cup run against Nigeria on Monday with a victory.
Marissa Sheva speaking after the loss to Canada, said, “Oh, it’s so important (to get a win against Nigeria).
“We’re gonna treat it just like we treated the last two games, regardless of the fact that we’re now out… for everyone back home in Ireland, we will be fighting for a win against Nigeria.”
Continue Reading
