BRISBANE, Australia (AP) — Nigeria pulled off a major upset Thursday, defeating co-host Australia 3-2 in a Women's World Cup Group B match.
The Super Falcons, who were making their 10th World Cup appearance, were inspired by a second-half substitute performance from Barcelona forward Asisat Oshoala. Oshoala scored the winning goal in the 82nd minute, and she also had an assist on Nigeria's first goal.
Nigeria opened the scoring in the 20th minute when Rasheedat Ajibade converted a penalty kick. Australia equalized in the 37th minute through Sam Kerr, and the teams went into halftime tied at 1-1.
Oshoala came on in the 62nd minute and immediately made an impact. She scored the go-ahead goal in the 82nd minute, and she then set up Francisca Ordega for Nigeria's third goal in the 86th minute.
Australia pulled one back in the 90th minute through Emily van Egmond, but it was too little too late.
The victory was a major upset for Nigeria, who were considered underdogs against Australia. The Super Falcons have now won two of their three matches in Group B, and they are in a good position to advance to the knockout stages.
Oshoala was named the player of the match for her performance. She scored two goals and had an assist, and she was a constant threat to the Australian defense.
"I'm so happy for the team," Oshoala said. "We worked hard for this win, and we deserved it. We're not done yet, though. We want to keep winning and make it to the final."
Nigeria's next match is against Portugal on Sunday. The Super Falcons will need to win that match to secure their place in the knockout stages.