The Super Falcons of Nigeria have successfully secured their place in the Women’s World Cup Round of 16, marking the first African team to achieve this feat in the ongoing global competition.
Finishing second in Group B, they exhibited an impressive performance, granting them a ticket to the knockout phase.
Notably, Nigeria is the only team from the continent to have participated in every edition of this prestigious competition since its inception in 1991, and their determination to surpass their previous best, reaching the quarter-finals in 1999, is evident in this tournament co-hosted by New Zealand and Australia.
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To advance to the Round of 16, the Super Falcons displayed their prowess by securing five points in Group B.
They opened with a 0-0 draw against Canada, followed by a remarkable 3-2 victory over the hosts, Australia.
READ ALSO: Super Falcons Ready for England Clash in 2023 Women’s World Cup Round of 16
Despite ending their final group game against the Republic of Ireland in a 0-0 draw, Nigeria had done enough to progress to the next stage.
Their opponent in the Round of 16 will be England, the winners of Group D.
The highly anticipated match is scheduled to take place at the Brisbane Stadium on Monday, August 7, at 08.30 WAT.
READ ALSO: Despite the Critics, Coach Waldrum’s Super Falcons Advance to the Round of 16
The Nigerian team is optimistic about their chances, with midfielder Antionette Payne expressing confidence that if they maintain their current level of play and keep improving with each game, they can go all the way to the final.
The team believes in their collective strength, hard work, and dedication to achieve their goals.
READ ALSO: Dosu: Super Falcons to Upset England in 2023 WWC Round of 16
As the anticipation builds, both Nigeria and England are eagerly looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead.
England’s forward, Chloe Kelly, emphasized the excitement of playing against different opposition in world football.
However, the English team acknowledges the Super Falcons’ toughness, with midfielder Katie Zelem describing them as a “really tough team” and recognizing that every team in the knockout stages deserves to be there.
READ ALSO: Women’s World Cup: FIFA to Pay Super Falcons N46m Each For Qualifying For Second Round
In preparation for the encounter, Nigeria’s opponent, Lauren James, admitted that it would be a difficult game, highlighting the competitive nature of teams catching up with each other in women’s football.
With both sides poised for an intense battle, the Round of 16 match between Nigeria and England promises to be a captivating contest as they vie for a spot in the quarter-finals and edge closer to their dream of reaching the final of the Women’s World Cup.
