Nigerian players celebrate during the Women's World Cup group stage against Australia in Brisbane, Australia, July 27, 2023. /CFP
Nigeria produced the first major shock of the Women's World Cup as they stunned Australia 3-2 on Thursday to leave the co-hosts' tournament hopes on thin ice.
Asisat Oshoala volleyed into an open goal in the 72nd minute to seal a deserved win for the Africans after Uchenna Kanu canceled out Emily van Egmond's opener on the cusp of halftime and Osinachi Ohale nudged Nigeria ahead after the break.
Australia cut the deficit to one goal when Alanna Kennedy nodded home a header in the 10th minute of stoppage time, but Nigeria rode out the final seconds to claim one of the finest wins in their history at the global showcase.
The victory in front of a huge crowd at Lang Park put Nigeria top of Group B and level with Canada on four points but ahead on goals scored. The 11-time African champions play eliminated Ireland in their last group match.
American and Dutch players in action during Women's World Cup group stage in Wellington, New Zealand, July 27, 2023. /CFP
Meanwhile, a rematch between the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup finalists, the U.S. and the Netherlands, ended 1-1 as Lindsey Horan's header equalized the Netherlands' opener in a highly-anticipated Group E game.
Portuguese and Vietnamese players in action during Women's World Cup group stage in Hamilton, New Zealand, July 27, 2023. /CFP
Portugal's Telma Encarnacao scored one goal and set up the other in a 2-0 win over fellow Women's World Cup debutants Vietnam, sending the Southeast Asian side out of the tournament.
(With input from agencies)