Nigeria and Canada have shared the spoils in their tight Group B opener in Melbourne, with the two captains involved in the game’s pivotal moment.
After a goalless opening half, Canada were awarded a penalty shortly after the break. Their captain, Christine Sinclair, stepped up to the spot but was thwarted by a superb stop low to her left by the Super Falcons skipper Chiamaka Nnadozie
Regrettably, the team was without the services of key players Rasheedat Ajibade and Halimat Ayinde, both of whom are suspended for the upcoming match. Ayinde, formerly of Western New York Flash in the United States, and Atletico Madrid Femeni forward Ajibade, received suspensions following their send-offs during the Super Falcons’ semi-final clash against host nation Morocco at the 2022 Africa Women’s World Cup.
FIFA’s disciplinary review, released on Wednesday, confirmed their ineligibility to participate in the crucial encounter against Canada.
The absence of Ajibade and Ayinde, who are key players in the Nigerian squad, undoubtedly posed a significant challenge for the team.
Besides facing Canada, the Super Falcons will also encounter tough opponents in co-hosts Australia and debutants the Republic of Ireland within the same group.
Their path to the knockout stages promises to be a challenging one, but the Nigerian team remains resolute in their determination to put up a spirited fight and progress in the prestigious tournament.
