By Saheed Afolabi
Nigeria booked their place in the round of 16 of the FIFA Women’s World Cup for the third time after accumulating five points from three matches.
The Super Falcons played a barren draw with Republic of Ireland to qualify for the next round of the World Cup.
Ireland played for pride against Nigeria after loosing out in the contention for a place in the round of 16 following their two losses earlier recorded in the World Cup against Canada and Australia.
Ireland dominated proceedings in the game and had the first opportunity when captain Katie McCabe saw her effort goes inches off the goal post.
Asisat Oshoala got the best chance of the first half as she races through on goal before firing wide.
Toni Payne provided a great assist to Uchenna Kanu who met the beautiful lofted ball with a header that was punched to safety by the Irish goalkeeper.
The Falcons were close to snatching a win in the encounter but couldn’t find the back of the net in the drab draw.
Despite securing a draw against the Girls In Green, Nigeria have sealed a place at the round of 16 of the FIFA Women’s World Cup for the third time in their history.
