FIFA 2023: Super Falcons Beat Australia 3-2 To Secure First Win

The Super Falcons came from a goal down to defeat World Cup co-hots Australia 3-2 on Thursday at Brisbane Stadium to claim their first victory in the  2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Emily van Egmond had put the Matildas in front in the first minute of the first half added time. But just when it seemed like the Aussies were going to go into the break ahead, Uchenna Kalu restored parity for the Nigerians in the fifth minute of first-half stoppage time.

Osinachi Ohale then put the Super Falcons in front 65 minutes before Asisat Oshoala, who came into the fray as a 64th-minute substitute, capitalised on a mix-up in the Matildas’ backline to make it 3-1 for the Super Falcons.

Alanna Kennedy then pulled one back for Australia in the 10th minute of second-half stoppage time but it was too little too late for the World Cup co-host.

The 90th-minute introduction of Onome Ebi meant that the 40-year-old Nigerian defender became the second oldest player to appear at the World Cup.

With the win, the Super Falcons’ chance of reaching the round of 16 has been boosted after Canada secured a 2-1 victory against Ireland on Wednesday.

In their opening match at the tournament, the Falcons displayed defensive prowess, including goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie saving a penalty, to secure a commendable point.

In their only previous Women’s World Cup meeting in 2015, Australia emerged victorious with a 2-0.