Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie emerged as Nigeria’s savior along with her second-half penalty save in opposition to the legendary Christine Sinclair, thwarting Olympic champions Canada in a nail-biting 0-0 draw on Friday.
This fiercely contested battle noticed either side clinch a degree in Group B, one of many match’s hardest teams, that includes Ireland and co-hosts Australia.
The action-packed encounter witnessed Nigeria’s Deborah Abiodun receiving the primary marching orders of the match within the dying moments.
For Canada’s 40-year-old skipper, Christine Sinclair, it was a second of reckoning, as she sought to make historical past by turning into the primary participant ever to attain in six World Cups.
Her golden alternative got here when a VAR test awarded Canada a penalty, however destiny had different plans, as Nnadozie’s heroic save saved Sinclair from reaching that elusive milestone.
In the aftermath of the pulsating match, Nnadozie couldn’t comprise her elation, calling it a dream come true.
Named the participant of the match, the 22-year-old Paris FC stopper revealed her burning need for revenge in opposition to Sinclair.
Having conceded in opposition to the legendary ahead earlier than, Nnadozie was decided to set issues proper this time.
Meanwhile, in a historic feat for the Philippines, the nation celebrated its first-ever qualification for a World Cup each for women and men.
Despite their unbelievable achievement, they confronted a formidable problem in opposition to Switzerland, who proved their mettle with a convincing 2-0 victory in Dunedin.
The match witnessed some contentious moments, with a VAR choice awarding Switzerland a penalty on the stroke of half-time.
Ramona Bachmann displayed nerves of metal as she slotted the spot-kick previous the Filipino goalkeeper, Olivia McDaniel, who may solely watch helplessly because the ball sailed previous her.
The Swiss, ranked twentieth on this planet, confirmed their class and dominance, doubling their lead within the sixty fourth minute when Seraina Piubel pounced on a rebound from shut vary, securing a well-deserved victory.
Amid the on-field motion, Australia’s Women’s World Cup marketing campaign was dealt a blow as star participant Sam Kerr’s calf harm compelled her to overlook a minimum of the opening two video games.
Coach Tony Gustavsson saved the harm a secret for tactical causes, however the omission of Kerr’s title from the staff sheet raised eyebrows.
After their 1-0 win in opposition to Ireland, Gustavsson lastly got here clear concerning the scenario, revealing the challenges they confronted main as much as the match.
As the exhilarating match progresses, Saturday’s video games promise to deliver much more pleasure, with the mighty United States launching their bid for an unprecedented third World Cup crown in opposition to Vietnam in Auckland.
European champions England will tackle debutants Haiti in Brisbane, whereas China faces Denmark, and Zambia lock horns with the 2011 champions Japan in different thrilling encounters.
Source: www.dailysabah.com
