Roses are red, violet is blue, and in the Nigeria vs England game, Super Falcons need a perfect game against the ladies in white and blue.
Nigeria’s Super Falcons face the Lionesses of England at the 2023 Women’s World Cup Round of 16, in what will appear to be a final before the final for the Nigerians.
Nigeria Vs England Head To Head
This matchup will be the second time the two nations will square up in the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Adaku Okoroafor and Rita Nwadike’s goals weren’t enough to secure victory for the Nigerians at the 1995 Women’s World Cup. The game ended in a 3-2 victory for the Lionesses with the Super Falcons finishing fourth in the group.
The English who are ranked fourth in the world coming into the tournament are the obvious favourite to win the competition. A flawless display on the group stage showcased England’s intent and established their authority in the competition.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s win over Australia in the group stage proves to the world that they are on a mission.
Stars To Watch
The English team stinks with talent. Lauren James, Lucy Bronze, Alessia Russo, Lauren Hemp, Rachel Daly, Mary Earps, Alex Greenwood, and the list goes on. The Nigerian team who derive joy in sitting deep and exploiting teams on quick breaks will have a lot on their table when they clash with England for a spot in the quarterfinals.
A win for the English will make it the fourth time England will be reaching the quarter-final at the FIFA Women’s World Cup. For Nigeria, a win will mean a monumental achievement making it the first time the African giants will be making it into the quarterfinals of the competition.
The Coaching Factor
England’s Sarina Wiegman a three-time Best FIFA Women’s Coach, is one coach who is highly respected in women’s football. She took the Netherlands to the European title in 2017. Also, she led the Netherlands to a World Cup final losing to the USA in 2019.
Furthermore, Wiegman has brought this brilliant mind and has transformed the English team, winning the Euros and Finalissima in 2021.
Randy Waldrum’s Super Falcons will hope to break the impressive English attack with their impressive defense. Nigeria’s defense let in only twice after four games.
However, the question is, will the cup return home or the Super Falcons will prevail?