Nigeria’s Super Falcons have begun their campaign in Australia on a brave note after playing out a goalless draw in their World Cup opener with Canada.
Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie was the hero on the day as her penalty save in the 50th minute ensured that Nigeria’s Super Falcons earned a point from the encounter.
It was an entertaining first half with Canada holding 68 percent of the possession, but Nigeria looked dangerous on a few counter attacking chances, including a shot from distance from 19-year-old Deborah Abiodun in the 34th minute.
Nigeria’s best chance came in the 39th minute, when star striker Asisat Oshoala’s ball from the near end line forced forced a nervy goal line clearance.
The second half started off from where first half ended with Canada on the ball in large stretches, and Nigeria launching dangerous counters in-between.
Canada’s best chance came when its all-time leading scorer, Christine Sinclair was fouled in the box in the 49th minute.
The Canadian football legend, who is playing in her sixth World Cup, couldn’t convert on her penalty, as her attempt to the right inside post was saved brilliantly by Chiamaka Nnadozie.
With the result, both teams are tied in Group Stage with one point each, while Australia leads the group with three points by virtue of its 1-0 win vs Republic of Ireland on Thursday.