Super Falcons: Nigerians praise Nnadozie for penalty, Abiodun despite red card

Friday's opening game of the 2023 Women's World Cup between the Super Falcons of Nigeria and Canada ended in a scoreless tie. 

It was a total team effort for the Super Falcons to ensure they did not lose their first game of the tournament.

In the 49th minute, Chiamaka Nnadozie of Nigeria saved a penalty shot from Canada's captain, Christine Sinclair. 

Over the past two seasons, Nnadozie has played a crucial role in helping Paris FC go up the Division 1 Feminine table in France. 

Against Canada, Nnadozie had the chance to showcase her skills in front of a larger audience. 

The huge highlight was Nnaodzie's stoppage of Sinclair's penalty, but she was outstanding throughout the entire game, often intercepting passes into the box before they could even develop into shots.

Before this game, Nnadozie was probably close to joining one of the top clubs in the world, but if any of them hadn't noticed her before, they will undoubtedly do so now.

After the game, there was a massive reaction to Nnadozie's heroics in the draw against Canada.

Nnadozie captained the team in the absence of Onome Ebi and was voted Player of the Match for her efforts.

Deborah Abiodun of Nigeria received the tournament's first red card on Friday as her team held Canada to a scoreless draw. 

The yellow card issued to Abiodun was changed to a red one in the 97th minute following a VAR review.

 Ashley Lawrence was tackled by a Nigerian midfielder with her studs striking the Canadians' shin, as seen on replay. 

Although she won't play in their upcoming match against Australia, Nigerians praised the effort of the 19-year-old.

The Super Falcons held on to get an important point and will now face co-hosts Australia in their second group game scheduled for Thursday, July 27, 2023.