Nigeria Vs Canada Draw: 10 Things You Should Know

FIFA's 2023 Women's World Cup has kicked off with Nigeria and Canada starting their first game.

The two formidable teams in the FIFA Women’s World Cup clashed in a thrilling match at Melbourne Rectangular Stadium in Australia on Friday.

The game ended in a scoreless draw, but here are 10 interesting facts that emerged from the intense encounter.

1. Compared to the previous two games, this match witnessed a more eventful display, with two yellow cards and one red card shown.
2. Leading the charge for Canada was the seasoned powerhouse forward Christine Sinclair, 40, with an impressive record of 190 goals and over 300 caps in her illustrious 22-year career.
3. On the opposing side, Nigeria had star defender Onome Ebi, also aged 40, showcasing her experience in her sixth World Cup appearance.
4. Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie emerged as the heroine of the match, playing in Brisbane, after saving Christine Sinclair's penalty early in the second half.
5. Falcons midfielder Deborah Abiodun received a late red card in the game for a dangerous foul.
6. Both teams created no dangerous chances in the first half, but the intensity increased as the game progressed.
7. In the 23rd minute, Nigeria went close to scoring despite Canada's early dominance when goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan parried away Ifeoma Onumonu's well-taken shot.
8. In the 98th minute, Abiodun was shown a straight red card after a VAR consultation for a bad tackle on Ashley Lawrence.
9. The match featured a high tempo and intense physicality, making it an exciting spectacle for fans.
10. Despite Barcelona forward Asisat Oshoala not shining in the game, Nigeria's defence put up a solid performance and gave away little against Canada's attack.