Nigeria becomes the first African team to win a match at the World Cup

Nigeria on Thursday stunned co-hosts of the ongoing FIFA Women’s World Cup, Australia, after edging them 3 – 2 in Brisbane at the Suncorp Stadium in their group B second encounter.

Australia’s Emily van Egmond scored the opener in the 46th minute courtesy of a sensational pass from Caitlin Foord.

However, just before the halftime break, Australia’s 1 – 0 lead was short-lived after Uchenna Kanu slotted in the equalizer after Rasheedat Ajibade’s attempt at goal was deflected.

After the break, Australia maintained its upper hand having much of the ball possession but they struggled to turn that into goals, which eventually saw them trailing behind in the 65th minute after Osinachi Ohale headed in the third goal of the match and Nigeria’s second.

Seven minutes later, second half substitute Asisat Oshoala, worsened the matters for the co-hosts after she netted in the third for Nigeria.

Australia managed to redeem themselves from a harrowing defeat in extra time after Alanna Kennedy headed in the last corner of the match which eventually saw the match ending 3 – 2.

The co-hosts have since congratulated Nigeria and cited that they will now be focusing on their last match of the group against Canada next week Monday.

Nigeria are now on the summit of the table with four points from two games followed by Canada with the same points, Australia in third with three points and Ireland on zero who will face Nigeria on Monday.

“We begged our first World Cup win, beating the 10th world ranked team and co-host to go top of Group B on superior goals, with four points from two games. Thank you Nigerians, world over,” said the Nigerian Women’s football team.