England Beats China 6:1, Awaits Nigeria
European champions England thrashed China 6-1 in their last group game on Tuesday in Adelaide.
This sends a signal to Nigerian Falcons ahead of their round of 16 meeting slated for next Monday in Brisbane. At the ongoing FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
England have quietly gone about their business in the group stage, winning their first two games against Denmark and Haiti 1-0, but showed absolute class to sweep aside the Chinese and finish their group campaign with a 100 per cent record.
The Lionesses have now set up a round of 16 clash against Nigeria, who finished second in Group B, no thanks to their goalless draw against Ireland on Monday. The Falcons drew 0-0 with Canada in their first game and stunned co-hosts Australia 3-2 in their second game but missed the chance to top the group and avoid the potentially difficult clash against England.
Chelsea forward, Lauren James, produced a sensational individual performance with two goals and three assists to earn the player of the match award against China and she’s already looking forward to the next round.
Nigerian Government Tasks Super Falcons On Sustaining Performance
However, some Nigerians expressed optimism about the Falcons’ chances of reaching the last eight, noting some of the things the team must do to curb England.
“Work on shooting, and better passing of the ball. Better use of corner kicks, free kicks and all. Attackers should also learn how to position themselves. Tidy the midfield and ensure to convert all chances. It will be a sweet game,” Jude Akhabue said.
“Tactics and athleticism will win this game, we can exploit that to our advantage,” Sam Baker added.
Another fan, Sunday Bamigboye, is anticipating an upset in the game.
“This can be done, impossible is nothing in football. Slow England down with their pace.”
Nigeria and England will face off a the Bribane Stadium by 8:30am next Monday.