FIFA Women’s World Cup: Ayinde keen to secure round of 16 berth against Ireland

The Super Falcons of Nigeria are top of Group B after beating Australia in Brisbane on Thursday in the ongoing Women’s World Cup

Super Falcons midfielder Halimatu Ayinde says she is looking forward to their decisive game against Ireland in their final group game of this year’s Women’s World Cup, Soccernet.ng reports

On Thursday, Waldrum’s side defied the odds to claim a surprise victory over co-hosts Australia in Brisbane in their second group game of the tournament. The host had taken the lead through Emily Egmond on the stroke of halftime, before goals from Uchenna Kanu, Osinachi Ohale and Asisat Oshoala turned the tide in favour of the African side.

This victory has placed the Falcons on top of their group with four points going into their final group game against the Republic of Ireland.

Ireland are already eliminated from the tournament after they lost their both games against Australia and Canada with slim margins, and only pride is at stake for the Europeans in Brisbane on Monday.

The Nigerian side are aiming to make it past the last-eight for the first time in the history of the tournament and claiming a positive result against Vera Pauw’s Ireland in their final group game will be very important to their cause.

Ayinde, who missed the goalless draw against Canada through suspension, but was available to play a key role in their victory over Australia, has taken to Twitter to express her anticipation ahead of the decisive encounter against Ireland.

For indeed what God can not do, does not exist!! Al glory to God for the important 3pts. Unto the next one, She wrote

Nigeria are top of Group B, level with Canada on 4 points, while Australia have 3 points, and already-eliminated Republic of Ireland remain on zero points. The Super Falcons can seal progression to the next round with a win or draw against the Irish.