FIFA WWC: Falcons have one leg in the knockout stage thanks to Waldrum magic

The Super Falcons now have a leg in the knockout stage at the ongoing FIFA Women’s World Cup after beating co-host Australia 3-2 on Thursday, thanks Coach Waldrum tactical expertise.

 The defeat leaves Australia facing a battle to qualify for the last 16 of the FIFA Women's World Cup.

Australia scored first when Emily van Egmond converted Caitlin Foord's pass.

But Nigeria equalised soon afterwards with Uchenna Kanu's calm finish, before Osinachi Ohale's header made it 2-1.

Asisat Oshoala scored after a mix-up between Australia's Alanna Kennedy and Mackenzie Arnold and Nigeria held on, despite Kennedy scoring late on.

Nigeria move top of Group B, level with Canada on four points, while Australia are a point behind both before the last matches in the section on Monday.

The Falcons now have their destiny in their own hands on Monday against Ireland. A draw will suffice for the Super Falcons.

Australia face Canada in Melbourne and would need a victory to guarantee a place in the knockout stages, while Nigeria will play already-eliminated Republic of Ireland at the same time in Brisbane.

Bookmakers who have written of the Falcons have started eating their words,

“Whatever else happens at this tournament, it has made the point repeatedly that the gap between the best and the rest in women’s international football is narrow than ever.’’

Robert Moylan who felt frustrated said. “This Matildas team has been exposed as a paper tiger and certainly not worthy of going far in the knockout stage- they don’t even deserve to make it to the next round. What an embarrassing game. Plenty of opportunities early but the finishes continue to be lousy. The passing, if it’s not lousy, is aimless.

“But they do finally score (still plenty of doubts about this offense without Kerr), but give up a goal five minutes later right at the half. I mean, what good team allows something so stupid? And now two goals for Nigeria from substitutes and Gustavsson still has no answers.”

Another said. “One cannot deny that Nigeria probably deserved it. Two clinically taken goals and a good performance from them. And so, it’s on to Canada. An all or nothing win required. Fingers crossed that Kerr and Fowler will be available.”