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2023 FIFA Women's World Cup
Group B
Australia v Nigeria
Lang Park
Brisbane, Australia
Thursday, 27 July 2023
Kick-off is at 11h00
Nigeria will go in search of more points in Group B when they take on
2023 Women's World Cup co-hosts Australia at Lang Park in Brisbane on Thursday, July 27.
Randy Waldrum's side picked up their first point in the tournament after holding Olympic champions Canada to a respectable 0-0 draw on Friday, which saw Chiamaka Nnadozie save a penalty from Christine Sinclair in the 50th minute.
The Super Falcons made a better start than four years ago in France when they suffered a 3-0 defeat against Norway first up before going to beat South Korea 2-0 to qualify for the knockout phase as one of the best third-placed teams.
They'll be hoping for a result against the Matildas to take the pressure off going into their final match with debutants Republic of Ireland next week.
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However, Waldrum must do without Deborah Abiodun after the teenage midfielder received a straight red card for a dangerous challenge on Ashley Lawrence deep into stoppage time.
Abiodun took to social media to apologise for her over-the-top tackle and expressed her gratitude to the American tactician for the chance to showcase her talent at the highest level.
"It's a dream come true to start in my first senior Women's World Cup match. I'm happy and honoured by the privilege," she said on Twitter.
"A bit disappointed my debut ended the way it did. I'm sorry. Overall, I'm grateful for the chance and proud of my team today. Thanks for your support always."
Australia are looking to build on their opening-day victory over the Irish, with the winner coming from Steph Catley via the penalty spot in the 52nd minute.
Tony Gustavsson's side were indebted to goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold for maintaining their 1-0 lead late on when she got a glove on Megan Connolly's inswinging corner that looked destined for the top right corner of the net.
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Gustavsson, who was missing star player Sam Kerr due to a calf injury she sustained in training on the eve of their World Cup opener, admits their performance wasn't of the highest quality and feels nerves may have played a part.
"It wasn't the fantastic attacking Australian team that we have seen when we're flying," he said. "It was a team that knows how to win a game and find a way to win a game and do what's needed in that moment - that's what I'm most impressed with.
"We know we can do better in attack. I think we showed that in parts of the attack, when we had some good combination play down the right-hand side.
"A couple of times in the beginning of the second half we played faster and had more movements off the ball and played with a little bit more confidence. I hope that playing the first game in the World Cup now will tick that box mentally."
Super Falcons star Asisat Oshoala didn't have much of an impact against Canada and will be hoping to raise her game when they face the Matildas. The Barcelona striker scored the 30th goal of her international career in a 2-1 win over fellow World Cup competitors Haiti on April 7, but failed to test Kailen Sheridan in the Canada goal.
With Kerr also ruled out of the clash with Nigeria, Australia will be looking to another experienced head in Caitlin Foord to lead the line once more. The Arsenal striker started against the Republic of Ireland, although she didn't have many opportunities to add to her international tally of 29 goals.
Head-to-Head:
Matches - 1
Australia - 1
Nigeria - 0
Draws - 0
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