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By Johnny Edward
Super Falcons captain, Chiamaka Nnadozie made a penalty save to earn the Falcons a crucial point in their opening game against Canada.
PUNCH Sports Extra rates how Randy Waldrum’s team performed in the encounter at Melbourne Rectangular Stadium
Chiamaka Nnadozie
The 22-year-old was the hero for the Falcons after saving Christine Sinclair’s penalty in the 50th minute. She also made three great saves in the encounter aside denying Sinclair a chance to become the tournament’s oldest scorer on Friday. Her penalty save ensured Nigeria remained unbeaten at the Women’s World Cup against Canada. 9
Ashleigh Plumptre
Osinachi Ohale
Ohale calming influence ensured the presence of non-playing captain, Onome Ebi was not missed. She marshaled the defence well alongside her partner Blessing Demehin who was making her World Cup debut. She also made crucial interventions when her partners strayed away from her position. 6
Blessing Demehin
Had a shaky start in the game but grew in confidence as the game wore on. Demehin did well in one-on-one situations against the rampaging Canadian attack. 5
Michelle Alozie
The USA-based defender posted a decent performance, though she could have been more effective in the final third when she got into some promising positions in attack. 5
Ifeoma Onumonu
The Gotham FC striker deployed in a different role on the left wings didn’t really get going in the game. She had the Falcons’ first chance at goal but it was saved. She made up for her ineffectiveness in attack, covering up in defence. 6
Toni Payne
Nigeria’s midfielder had a rather quiet game and was not imposing as expected. 5
Christy Ucheibe
One foundation on which Nigeria’s defensive plan was hinged and she was athletic and physical. Though she would have liked to circulate the ball better, she closed down spaces till the end game.
Deborah Abiodun
Despite the late red card, 19-year-old Abiodun had a great game for the Falcons in midfield. She was unafraid to get on the ball or get stuck when her team needed it—a great addition to the team.
Francisca Ordega
Not a great showing from the veteran, maybe because she had to do more defensive work. She would be very relieved after her foul for the penalty was saved. She has lost some pace and may have to start on the bench in the next match.
Asisat Oshoala
Oshoala was isolated in attack due to the defensive plan of coach Randy Waldrum. She also lacked quality passes to wreck havoc in the game though she was a threat when she had the ball. 5
Substitutes
Uchenna Kanu
The athletic forward came on and added numbers to the midfield after the expulsion of Abiodun. 3
Esther Okoronkwo
Did not do much to be rated
Jennifer Echegini
Did not do much to be rated