Super Falcons of Nigeria have made it out of the group stage and qualified for the second round at the FIFA Womens World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
Super Falcons played a goalless draw with the Republic of Ireland in Group B at the tournament.
Nigeria finishes second in the group with five points behind Australia who secured top spot by thrashing Canada 4-0.
Super Falcons missed many glaring chances and star girl, Asisat Oshoala who started the game, was one of the biggest culprits. She missed an open net in the first half after running with the ball to the right of the Irish goal and shot wide. It seemed she was not very fit for the game, as her running was heavy and off pace.
Uchenna Kanu also came close with a header in the second half that hit the floor and was deflected on the cross bar of the Irish goal.
Ashleigh Pumptre of Nigeria put in a superlative performance in the Nigerian defence. She was everywhere with her runs and tackles. Michelle Alozie on the right side of the Nigerian defence was another workhorse with her brilliant defending and runs along the flanks which caused serious problems for the Irish.
The midfield trio of Toni Payne, Ucheibe and Ayinde held their forth with commanding performances.
Group B has been a group with shocking results. The elimination of Olympic Champions, Canada was one of the unforeseen shockers in this very tough group. Nigeria had earlier beaten Australia 2-3 in the second game of the group.
Congratulations to the Super Falcons of Nigeria. 2 draws, 1 win and no defeats.
