WWC2023: Clash hosts Nigeria leaves Australians with a must-see match against Canada

July 27 - Nigeria came from behind to stun Australia 3-2 on Thursday and leave the Matildas fighting for their lives to advance to the last 16 of the Women's World Cup.

Barcelona striker Asisat Oshoala came on in the second half and inspired Nigeria to a famous upset, rushing through a defensive error after 72 minutes to net his country's third goal and come unstuck as a sign of celebration.

Before that, Uchenna Kanu canceled out Emily van Egmond's opener at half-time and Osinachi Ohale pushed Nigeria ahead just after the break.

The victory allowed Nigeria to share top spot in Group B with Olympic champions Canada, both on four points, and means Australia must beat the Canadians in their final group game to secure a knockout spot.

Struggling with injuries in attack with striker Sam Kerr and Mary Fowler both missing the game in Brisbane, Australia managed 28 shots on goal and eight on target but couldn't spare themselves enough opportunities.

They managed to score a goal with two minutes of stoppage time remaining but failed to equalize and are now in grave danger of being knocked out of the competition.

Nigeria, meanwhile, can begin to dream of a place in the round of 16. The 11-time African champions have already eliminated Ireland in the group's other final game on Monday.

"It was a huge opportunity that we passed up," said Steph Catley, who leads the Matildas in Kerr's absence. "We created a lot of opportunities that we couldn't finish. We weren't patient enough and we weren't clinical.

"(Nigeria) were great on the counter and they ended their chances. We just need to get through as fast as possible - in Canada now. That's what World Cups are for."

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