African Champions, Nigeria fought back against Sweden in a Group D match at the FIFA Women's World Cup from a two goal deficit in the first half to level 3-3.
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| Photo credit-@fifa |
The Super Falcons started well, showing confidence in their play but an own goal in the 20th minute by Nigerian striker Desire Oparanozie from a corner kick left the Super Falcons disturbed.
An Emma Berglund’s header from a corner kick hit Desire Oparanozie on the chest and was redirected into Nigeria’s net with the Falcons goal keeper, Precious Dede off her line.
Another poor clearance off a Swedish corner kick made it 2-0 in the 31st minute, it was tapped into an empty net by Nilla Fischer. The poor response from Nigeria during set piece suddenly became a problem but the trio of Asisat Oshoala, Desire Oparanozie and Francisca Ordega kept running at the Swede's box till half time.
While some Nigerian fans harbor divided thoughts of not conceding more the Super Falcons came into the second half determined and that produced two quick goals that brought the needed confidence back.
Ngozi Okobi opened scores for Nigeria 5 minutes after restart while the BBC Women's Footballer of the year, Asisat Oshoala made it two for Nigeria in the 53rd minute.
The MVP and golden shoe winner at the 2014 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, Asisat Oshoala gave an individual effort to finish from close range after she received a pass from left back,Onome Ebi.
The Europeans got another goal in the 60th minute through Sembrant after a beautiful build-up play on the left side as Lina Nilsson dropped a cross in Nigeria's six yard and was deflected into Precious Dede's net by Sembrant.
The Nigerians continued to mount pressure and it paid off in the 87th minute when Washington Spirit striker, Francisca Ordega placed the ball through the legs of Lindahi to level scores at 3-3.
The Super Flacons will play their second match against Australia on June 12,2015.
How Nigeria started:
Precious Dede, Osinachi Ohale, Ngozi Ebere, Onome Ebi, Josephine Chukwunonye, Halimatu Ayinde, Evelyn Nwabuoku, Francisca Ordega, Ngozi Okobi, Desire Oparanozie, Asisat Oshoala
Reserves:
Ibubeleye Whyte, Christy Ohiaeriaku, Blessing Edoho, Ugo Njoku, Sarah Nnodim, Martina Ohadugha, Perpetua Nkwocha, Esther Sunday, Cecilia Nku, Loveth Ayila, Courtney Dike, Iniabasi Umotong
