Nnadozie's heroic penalty save forces stalemate in Nigeria-Canada encounter
Christine Sinclair Credit: Alex Pantling - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
The second match of Group B in the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup concluded in a goalless draw, as Nigeria and Canada locked horns at the Melbourne Rectangular Stadium.
Nigerian goalkeeper and captain, Chiamaka Nnadozie, stood tall in the game's crucial moment, making a critical penalty save to deny Canadian captain, Christine Sinclair, from becoming the tournament's oldest scorer. Interestingly, Sinclair's penalty miss is the fourth in the last six awarded at the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
In the afternoon sunshine, Canada edged in possession in a tense first half. However, Nigeria fashioned the best opportunities. Ifeoma Onumonu and Asisat Oshoala tested Canadian goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan and defender Vanessa Gilles respectively, but their shots were successfully thwarted.
The game's pivotal moment came five minutes into the second half, as Nigerian defender Francisca Ordega fouled Sinclair in the penalty area. Sinclair, aged 40, aimed to make history, only to be denied by Nnadozie's expert save.
Both teams hunted for a match-winning goal in the final quarter. Nigeria's Michelle Alozie's effort was blocked, while late attempts from Canadian substitutes Evelyne Viens and Cloe Lacasse were also cleared.
Nigeria will feel the loss of midfielder Deborah Abiodun, who received a red card late in the second half stoppage time.
Earlier in the day, co-hosts Australia had a positive start by overcoming the Republic of Ireland in a tightly contested battle in Sydney.
A decisive penalty in the second half from captain Steph Catley made the difference, securing Australia's win in the group's opening game.
The goalless draw between Nigeria and Canada thus leaves Australia leading in Group B after the first round of matches.
