Super Falcons grind out a goalless draw with Canada in their opening World Cup match

NIGERIA'S Super Falcons shared the spoils with Canada in their opening game of the ongoing Fifa Women's World Cup after the two sides fought out a goalless draw at the Melbourne Rectangular Stadium this morning.

In their tight Group B opener, Canada were awarded a penalty early in the second half and their captain, Christine Sinclair, stepped up to the spot but she was thwarted by the Super Falcons skipper Chiamaka Nnadozie. Despite shading possession by 68% to 32%, the Canadians were unable to break the Falcons down, creating relatively few scoring chances, as they only had three shots on target all game.

During a tight first half the Canadians just about shaded possession but the best of the chances actually fell Nigeria’s way. Ifeoma Onumonu had an effort parried wide by Kailen Sheridan midway through the half before a vital intervention from Vanessa Gilles kept Asisat Oshoala’s goal-bound effort out after a missed clearance from Sheridan.

However, come the second half, things changed as the Canadians dominated possession more, resulting in the 50th minute penalty. Striker Sinclair was brought down by Francisca Ordega and the 40-year-old got up and took the kick but missed the chance to become the tournament’s oldest scorer as Nnadozie made a fine save low to her left.

As the match wore on, both nations went in search of a winner, with Nigeria’s Michelle Alozie having a shot well blocked with a quarter of an hour remaining before Canadian substitutes Evelyne Viens and then Cloe Lacasse also had late efforts cleared. Nigeria will be without midfielder Deborah Abiodun for their next match after she was shown a red card late in stoppage time for a reckless tackle.

All in all, the Super Falcons were not able to impose themselves in the game as they sat back to contain the pressure from the Canadians. Also, the tactics used by the head coach Randy Waldrum did not help the ladies when they had possession of the ball.

In addition, the 4-5-1 formation used by Mr Waldrum was not the best formation for the team as it led to Assist Oshoala being isolated upfront and she did not have any backup when she was with the ball. Particularly disappointing was the fact that the physicality of Oshoala, Francisca Ordega and Ifeoma Onumonu was not used to bully the Canadian off the ball.

Maybe if the team had utilised their physicality against Canada they would have been able to create more counterattacks and possibly score a goal. Anchorwoman 19, was the youngest player on the pitch but she had a superb showing as her work rate in the middle of the park was vital.

Abiodun registered seven tackles, one interception and one blocked shot and also won seven of her 11 ground duels. Despite her late red card, Abiodun said she  is elated with her performance for Nigeria.

“It’s a dream come true to start in my first senior Fifa World Cup match. I’m happy and honoured by the privilege. A bit disappointed my debut ended the way it did. I’m sorry.

“Overall, I’m grateful for the chance and proud of my team today. Thanks for your support always,” Abiodun added.