Super Falcons start World Cup campaign with a draw

<p>Nigeria’s Super Falcons started their 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup campaign in Australia and New Zealand with a goalless draw against Olympic champions, Canada.</p>, <p>Goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie turned the heroine of the match played in Brisbane after saving Christine Sinclair’s penalty early in the second half.</p>, <p>The Falcons also had midfielder, Deborah Abiodun sent off late on in the game for a dangerous foul.</p>, <p>In the 23rd minute, the Nigerian ladies went close with the opener despite Canada’s early dominance when Ifeoma Onumonu had her well-taken shot parried away by goalkeeper, Kailen Sheridan.</p>, <p>Five minutes later, Canada’s Jordyn Huitema failed to direct her header from a cross towards goal.</p>, <p>Both teams finished the first half creating no dangerous opportunity.</p>, <p>The second half began on a disappointing note for the Falcons when the referee awarded a penalty for Canada after Francisca Ordega brought down Christine Sinclair in the box</p>, <p>But Nnadozie stepped up to save the resulting penalty by Sinclair.</p>, <p>The Canadians went close again seven minutes later but Adriana Leon’s clever free-kick missed the target.</p>, <p>They continued to surge forward and almost scored but Nnadozie stopped a left-foot strike.</p>, <p>Substitute Uchenna Kanu connected with a cross from Onumonu which the keeper saved from close range but the flag went off for offside.</p>, <p>With five minutes left, Tosin Demehin made a timely block to deny a goal-bound shot.</p>, <p>In the 98th minute, Abiodun was shown a straight card after consultation with VAR for a bad tackle on Ashley Lawrence.</p>, <p>The result means after three meetings, the Super Falcons are still unbeaten against Canada at the women’s World Cup (one win and two draws).</p>, <p>Up next for the Falcons are hosts Australia on Thursday, July 27.</p>