Nigeria 3-2 Australia: They never believed in us but GOD DID – Ucheibe Christy

Nigeria 3-2 Australia: They never believed in us but GOD DID - Ucheibe Christy

In a breathtaking encounter at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, the Super Falcons of Nigeria emerged triumphant in pulsating Group B match against co-hosts Australia, securing a thrilling 3-2 victory, leaving Ucheibe Christy in celebration.Nigeria 3-2 Australia: They never believed in us but GOD DID - Ucheibe Christy

Among the players who shone brightly was 22-year-old midfielder Ucheibe Christy, whose outstanding performance contributed to Nigeria’s success.

After the match, Christy took to her Twitter page, expressing gratitude to God for their triumph, despite facing skepticism from doubters.

She remarked that while others never believed in them, the Lord had always believed in them.

God you did it again and again thank you. They never believed in us but you did Lord,” Ucheibe Christy wrote.

Match Recap:

The Super Falcons dominated the game for 90 minutes, netting three goals, while Australia managed to score a solitary goal by Emily Van Egmond during the first minute of extra time in the first half.

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Uchenna Kanu answered back five minutes later, leading to a 1-1 draw at the end of the first half.

The intensity remained high in the second half, with both teams fiercely contesting every inch of the pitch.

In the 10th minute of second-half extra time, Akinna Kennedy narrowed the margin to 2-3, setting the stage for a nail-biting finish that had fans on the edge of their seats.

Tactical Brilliance by Coach Randy Waldrum:

The Super Falcons’ American-born coach, Randy Waldrum, showcased his tactical genius, making two crucial substitutions in the 76th and 77th minutes of the second half.

Halimatu Ayinde and Ashleigh Plumptre were replaced by Onyin Echegini and Glory Ogbonna, respectively, altering the dynamics of the match in favor of the Nigerian side.

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Earlier substitutions by Waldrum in the 63rd and 64th minutes, bringing on Asisat Oshoala and Esther Okoronkwo, further strengthened the team’s attacking force.

Super Falcons’ Goal-Scoring Feats:

In the 65th minute of the second half, Rasheedat Ajibade delivered a precise pass to Osinachi Ohale, who coolly slotted the ball home for the team’s second goal.

Asisat Oshoala, the star forward from Barcelona, showcased her brilliance by extending the lead to 3-1 in the 72nd minute of the second half, further solidifying the Super Falcons’ dominance.

Statistical Discrepancy:

Despite the Super Falcons’ remarkable victory, the statistical data of the match presented a contrasting picture.

Australia controlled 60 percent of ball possession, while Nigeria held 40 percent.

The co-hosts had a total of 25 shots, with 5 on target, compared to Nigeria’s 10 shots, 5 of which were on target.

Australia also secured 6 free kicks, while the Super Falcons were awarded 5. Additionally, Australia earned 14 corner kicks, while Nigeria had two.

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Group Standings:

With this momentous win, the Nigerian senior women’s team now leads Group B with 4 points and a goal difference of plus two after two rounds of matches.

Canada, the Olympic Champions, holds the second spot with 4 points and a goal difference of plus one.

Co-host Australia sits in third place with three points, while the Republic of Ireland is yet to secure any points in the championship.

Upcoming Matches:

The Super Falcons are gearing up to face the Republic of Ireland in their last group match on July 31st, 2023, at Brisbane Stadium, Australia.

Meanwhile, Canada will take on Australia at Melbourne Rectangular Stadium, Australia, in what promises to be another gripping encounter.

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About the Author

Obum Akawor
A retired Senior Civil Servant and sports journalist. A Fellow, Chartered Institute of Administration, FCAI.

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