Hosts Australia and Nigeria advance to the last 16 of the FIFA Women’s World Cup
Melbourne, Australia — Hosts Australia and Nigeria have advanced to the last 16 of the FIFA Women’s World Cup from Group B following their respective wins on Monday.
Australia defeated Canada 4-0 at the Melbourne Rectangular Stadium, while Nigeria played out a goalless draw with Ireland at the Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane.
The win for Australia means they finish top of Group B with 6 points, while Canada is eliminated in third place with 4 points. Nigeria finishes as runners-up with 5 points, while Ireland is bottom with 1 point.
Australia’s win was inspired by a hat-trick from Hayley Raso, who scored in the 9th, 39th, and 58th minutes. Mary Fowler also scored for Australia in the 58th minute.
Nigeria’s draw with Ireland was hard-fought, with both teams creating chances. The game’s best option fell to Nigeria’s Asisat Oshoala, who hit the post in the 70th minute.
On Monday, the other two matches in Group B saw Japan defeat Spain 4-0 and Zambia defeat Costa Rica 3-1.