2023 FIFA World Cup: 10-men Falcons side hold Canada to goalless draw in Melbourne

The Super Falcons have held Canada to a goalless draw in their opening game of the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup in Melbourne, Australia.

Coach Randy Waldrum's side proved to be a hard nut to crack for the Olympic champions who have never defeated Nigeria at the World Cup.

The Canadians were the dominant side in the early stages of the game as they enjoyed much of the possession in the Falcons' halve of the pitch.

Canada were awarded a penalty in the second half after Francisca Ordega was adjudged to have fouled Christine Sinclair in the penalty box after a VAR review.

Goalkeeper Nnadozie stepped up to the plate with a brilliant double save to deny the Canadian captain from 11 yards.

Nnadozie ruined Sinclair's record of becoming the oldest player to have scored in the competition at age 40.

Super Falcons midfielder Deborah Abiodun was shown a red card for dangerous play
after a VAR review.

The Falcons will take on tournament co-hosts Australia in their next Group B game.

WDN