*Becomes first Nigerian, African player to score in three Women’s World Cups
Super Falcons forward, Asisat Oshoala, said on Thursday that the team still had a lot to offer in Women’s football after their superlative performance against co-host Australia at ongoing 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The Super Falcons came from behind to humble Australia 3-2 at Brisbane Stadium.
Oshoala came in as a substitute and her presence unsettled Australia in the 72nd minute as she scored Nigeria’s third and decisive goal from a tight angle.
Her goal came after Uchenna Kanu had levelled scores for Nigeria late in the first half, while Osinachi Ohale headed in Nigeria’s second goal in the 63rd minute.
Oshoala told newsmen after the match that the victory for the Super Falcons who are currently ranked 40th in the world against 10th ranked Australia, was a result of hard work and team spirit.
“I give kudos to my teammates. Everyone was out there to play their hearts out.
“Indeed, no one knows what this team is made of. We only have to come to the field and show ourselves and show the kind of heart we have.
“Like I said earlier, this team has a lot to offer and everyone and the world has seen that today,” she said.
Oshoala, in spite of having to start from the bench as a substitute, said it was all about the coach’s decision, adding that it was for the overall good of the team.
“Sometimes, the coach makes important team decisions and to be honest with you, I wasn’t feeling too well.
“But I am not a selfish person and this is why we have 23 players in the squad for the World Cup.
“If someone is not 100 per cent fit to play, then others can step up. As you can see, they all stepped up on the pitch today.
“So, it doesn’t matter for me where I am starting from; the most important thing is the team’s result,” she said.
Oshoala became the first Nigerian and African player to score in three Women’s World Cups.
On her latest feat, the FC Barcelona striker said she was not too concerned about her achievements, but was rather interested in the team’s success.
“Like I have always said, each tournament I go to I always want to make sure I give everything for my teammates and fight for this badge.
“Nigeria is the best country in the world. Naija for life! Let’s go!” she said.
Table-toppers Nigeria are now on four points having played a goalless draw in their first game against Canada and a 3-2 win against Australia in their second group game.
They are closely followed by the current Olympic champions, Canada, who are also on four points having also drawn one and won one game against Republic of Ireland (2-1).
Australia are third on the table with three points having won their first game 1-0 against the Republic of Ireland and a 2-3 lost in their second game against Nigeria.
The Republic of Ireland currently occupy the bottom of the table with no points, after losing two matches against Australia and Canada respectively.
The Super Falcons will play their final group match against the Republic of Ireland on Monday and will need at least a draw to go through to the next round.
The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup which is co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand kicked off on July 20 and is expected to end on August 20.
