In a battle for survival in group A, it was Nigeria who came out on top.
In a match that could (and would) determine who still had a chance to advance to the knockout stages, Nigeria made the most of their opportunities. A first goal that was thoroughly reviewed, followed by a strike from Asisat Oshoala enabled Nigeria to keep its advancement hopes alive following the 2-0 result at Grenoble’s Stade des Alpes.
The result leaves Nigeria tied with Norway, who lost to France, tied for second in Group A. However, having lost to Norway in its opening match, Nigeria must accomplish the impossible task of either beating or drawing France next Monday and on top of that, hope South Korea can spring the upset of Norway to keep its advancement hopes alive.
Nigeria sent a ball into the penalty area, Kim Do-yeon touched the ball, which continued forward, Desire Oparanozie made a run into the penalty area and stuck out her left hand towards the ball as it crossed the goal line. South Korea immediately pleaded for a handball and VAR was initiated, but the replays proved inconclusive, and the goal stood.
South Korea thought they had the equalizer in the 58th minute, but a goal off a rebound attempt Lee Geum-min was called back, as Geum-min was ruled to be offside by a mere inches on the shot prior to her goal. Nigeria secured the three points in the 75th minute, as Chidinma Okeke chipped a ball forward, Oshoala made the run into the penalty area, fought off Hwang Bo-ram’s challenge, rounded keeper Kim Min-jung and slotted the ball far post to double the Nigerian lead.
Culture
Women's World Cup
