At the Women’s World Cup on Thursday, Nigeria upset co-hosts Australia, winning famously 3-2.
Just before halftime, Emily van Egmond scored to put Australia ahead and send the home crowd into a frenzy.
Uchenna Kanu delivered the first sucker punch to deflate the celebrations at the Brisbane Stadium by scrambling home Nigeria’s opening goal of the 2023 competition while the stadium was bouncing from the Australian supporters.
Osinachi Ohale’s close-range header and Asisat Oshoala’s finish from a tight angle extended Nigeria’s lead in the second half. Oshoala’s goal made history by becoming her the first African to score at three Women’s World Cups.
Alanna Kennedy did score for Australia in the tenth minute of extra time, giving them a glimmer of hope, but Nigeria held on for a remarkable triumph that put the Super Falcons at the top of Group B.
Nigeria now leads by one point going into its last group match against Ireland, which has already been eliminated, while Australia, who is one point behind the Olympic winner, will play Canada in a game that must be won.
