It looks like Australia will be the underdogs as far as Group D is concerned, but make no mistake; they will be out to prove something when they file out against the Super Falcons of Nigeria in the second group match at the ongoing 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Canada at the Winnipeg Stadium on Friday.
The African champions gave a spirited performance in the 3-3 draw against Sweden in the group’s opener. The Nigerians twice came from behind to level things up to record their first point of the tournament. Unlike Nigeria, Australia fell like a pack of cards against USA with a 3-1 defeat.
Pressure is mounting back in Nigeria as many want the team to beat Australia in order to brighten their chances of proceeding to the next stage but the Super Falcons are far too experienced to think that the match will be a stroll in the pack.
“In football there is no team you can call a small team," team captain Evelyn Nwabuoko told footballlive.ng. "This is a whole new game of football and we have to see it as a challenge for us, and certainly we must take it as seriously as any other game.”
Nigeria will try to boss possession of the ball just as they did against Sweden. Australia could have their hands full with the rampaging quartet of Francisca Ordega, Asisat Oshoala, Desire Oparanozie and Player of the Match against Sweden, Ngozi Okobi. The quartet ensured Nigeria made 15 attempts against Sweden, though only three goals could be scored.
Australia could, however, benefit from the profligacy of the Nigerian side or perhaps look to soak up pressure and launch counter attacks, a style of play that was evident when they faced USA despite their eventual defeat.
Team News
Both the Nigerian and Australian coaches have the full compliment of their players to choose from, though there may be some minor fitness concerns with one or two players.
Previous Line-ups:
Australia (v USA):
Barbieri, Uzunlar, Alleway, Catley, Foord, Gorry, Kellond-Knight, van Egmond, De Vanna, Heyman, Kerr.
Nigeria (v Sweden):
Dede, Ohale, Njoku, Ebi, Chukwunonye, Oshoala, Oparanoize, Ayinde, Okobi, Nwabuoku (C), Ordega.
