Super Falcons of Nigeria will be hoping to continue their fairytale ride in the FIFA Women’s World Cup by defeating the Lioness of England, the reigning UEFA Euros Women champions.

Drawn in Group B with co-host Australia, Olympic champions Canada and debuting Republic of Ireland, the Falcons were tipped to exit the tournament at the group stage. However, Nigerian women shocked the football world when they defeated Australia 3-2 and held the other two opponents to goalless draws.

Their tally of five points from three games saw them finish second behind Australia to set up a meeting with England. Ahead of the tie in Brisbane, which will be broadcast live on SuperSelect 1 (ch 64) at 8:15am, many wonder if the Falcons have what it takes to advance to the quarter-finals at England’s expense.

While the Falcons dominate at the continental level in Africa, having won the Women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON) a record eleven times, their record at the World Cup has been underwhelming. Although they have appeared at all the previous editions of the tournament, they advanced beyond the group stage just twice.

Their stellar appearance in USA 1999 ended when they lost 4-3 to Brazil at the quarter-finals, while their twenty year wait for knockout football ended unceremoniously in a 3-0 loss against Germany at the 2019 edition held in France. But, even if the Falcons head into the clash against England as underdogs, they have shown that they are capable of beating the best teams.

When the Falcons defeated Australian, Coach Randy Waldrum was full of praise for the team. “The other thing that really impresses me is the fight this team has. It's one thing to have talent and have a good team, but there's something to be said about your heart and what's inside you. This team’s resolve, competitiveness and fight has been nothing short of amazing,” he noted.

Having secured two clean sheets in three games, Waldrum will need in-form Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and the defensive quartet of Michelle Alozie, Demehin Oluwatosin, Osinachi Ohale and Ashleigh Plumptre to be at their best against the Lioness’ attacking threat spearheaded by Chelsea’s prodigy Lauren James.

This match also means much for Plumptre who did not make the cut for England at the U-17 and U-20 FIFA World Women’s Cup tourneys in 2016 and 2018 before she switched allegiance to play for Nigeria in 2021. She will be hoping to inspire a spirited victory against her former teammates on Monday.

Enjoy all the remaining matches of the FIFA Women’s World Cup on GOtv Supa+. If you are a new customer, you can visit the nearest GOtv dealer to purchase your decoder. For existing customers, download the MyGOtv app or dial *288# to reconnect or upgrade.

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