BRISBANE, Australia — Barcelona forward Asisat Oshoala came on as a second-half substitute and inspired Nigeria’s 3-2 upset win over co-host Australia on Thursday with her extra edge in attack and a goal that sealed the victory and sparked a jersey-shedding celebration.
The win moved Nigeria into a share of first place in Group B with Canada, both with four points, one more than Australia.It means Australia, struggling with injuries in attack with striker Sam Kerr and Mary Fowler missing the game in Brisbane, needs to beat Olympic champion Canada in Melbourne on Monday to control its own fate for a spot in the round of 16.
Oshoala swooped on a defensive mix-up in the 72nd minute and beat three Australians to the ball, sneaking a right-foot inside the near post from a tight angle. She peeled off her jersey and ran to the sideline to celebrate, getting a yellow card in the process.