England secured a hard-fought victory against Nigeria in the Women’s World Cup round of 16 on Monday. Propelling them to the quarterfinals in a tense penalty shootout. Despite the absence of star player Lauren James, who received a red card and was ejected from the match for a violent tackle on a Nigerian defender. England managed to prevail with a 4-2 win in the shootout. Substitute forward Chloe Kelly sealed the deal with the last kick.
The match ended in a goalless draw after regulation and extra time. Providing Nigeria with a chance to secure its first-ever knockout victory in the Women’s World Cup after nine previous appearances in the prestigious tournament. However, it was the European champions, England, who emerged victorious. Although they faced difficulties in creating scoring opportunities against Nigeria’s resilient defence.
The pivotal moment of the match occurred with just five minutes remaining in regulation when England’s star forward, Lauren James. She received a yellow card from referee Melissa Borjas for a challenge on Michelle Alozie. However, following a VAR review and with the aid of slow-motion replays, the yellow card was upgraded to a red card, forcing England to play with ten players for the remainder of the game.
England Set to Face Colombia or Jamaica in Quarterfinals
In response to the red card, the Lionesses were compelled to alter their formation, introducing Chloe Kelly as the lone forward in the challenging 10-on-11 scenario. Nigeria had a late chance to snatch the victory eight minutes into stoppage time, but Alozie’s left-foot shot from seven yards went wide of the post.
The match extended into extra time, during which veteran forward of Nigeria, Asisat Oshoala, tested England goalkeeper Mary Earps with a powerful left-foot shot. However, the game remained deadlocked, leading to the decisive penalty shootout.
Following the nail-biting win, England is now set to face Colombia or Jamaica in the quarterfinals in Sydney next Saturday. The team’s resilience and unwavering belief in their abilities have solidified their position as strong contenders for the title. Especially after the reigning champions, the U.S. team were eliminated in a penalty shootout against Sweden.
Chloe Kelly expressed her elation and the team’s unwavering spirit in a post-match TV interview. Applauding their collective efforts and unity. Meanwhile, Nigeria’s coach, Randy Waldrum, an American who also coaches the University of Pittsburgh’s women’s team. Commended Nigeria’s commendable performance in challenging one of the world’s best teams throughout the match.