England 0 Nigeria 0 (4-2 on pens): 10-woman Lionesses find a way past Super Falcons 

Nigeria have crashed out of the 2023 Fifa Women's World Cup after losing 4-2 on penalties to England in a round of 16 tie at the Lang Stadium in Brisbane on Monday. 

Both teams fought hard, but the game remained goalless in regular time, leading to an intense extra-time period.

England, despite unconvincing 1-0 wins in their first two matches, found their form with a resounding 6-1 victory over China to top their group.

On the other hand, Nigeria, considered underdogs, impressed by finishing second in a tough group and securing a win against co-hosts Australia and a draw against Olympic champions Canada.

The match began with few clear-cut chances, with Super Falcons fullback Ashleigh Plumptre  hitting the crossbar in the 17th minute, and England's Lauren James struggling to make an impact due to the tight Nigerian defense.

As the game progressed, both teams had opportunities, but failed to capitalize on them. Nigeria survived a scare with a VAR review overturning a penalty decision in favor of England just past the half-hour mark. 

In the second half, Nigeria continued to threaten and they were unlucky not to take the lead in the 47th minute when Uchenna Kanu's brilliant header came off the woodwork off Toni Payne's cross. 

The game saw its turning point in the 86th minute when England's Lauren James received a straight red card for a foul on Alozie after a VAR review.

With England down to ten players, the match went into extra time. Both teams struggled to create significant chances, and the tension grew as penalties loomed on the horizon.

Nigeria's Desire Oparanozie and Michelle Alozie missed their penalties, giving England the advantage.

The Lionesses held their nerve, winning the penalty shootout 4-2 to secure their place in the quarter-finals.

It was a hard-fought and dramatic encounter, with Nigeria displaying resilience and England showing determination despite being reduced to ten players.

The Lionesses will now face another tough challenge in the quarter-finals, as they aim to advance further in the Women's World Cup.
    

Hashim Kolawole

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