The Super Falcons of Nigeria have earned praise despite a VAR-induced 0-1 loss to tournament host at the FIFA Women’s World Cup in France on Monday night.
France made it a three-game sweep in Group A after a controversial decision by the video assistant referee set up the game’s only goal.
Nigerian defender, Ngozi Ebere, tackled Viviane Asseyi from behind in the box in the 73rd minute, and a video review led to a foul call, a penalty and a second yellow card for Ebere, leading to her ejection.
It looked to be the correct decision, but Nigeria appeared to dodge a bullet when French defender, Wendie Renard, put the penalty kick off the left post and wide.
However, video review determined that Nigerian teenage goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, came off her line too early on the penalty, allowing for a re-taken attempt, which Renard buried in the top right corner.
With Norway finishing second in the group, it is yet unclear if the Super Falcons will advance to the Round of 16 as one of the best third place finishers.
Nigerians and other football lovers have, however, been praising the Nigerian ladies for putting up a brave performance against one of the competition’s favourites.
