Nigeria stun co-hosts Australia in thrilling fightback victory

The Super Falcons recovered from going behind to record their first win of the 2023 Women's World Cup in dramatic fashion.

Despite conceding late in the first half, Nigeria's never-say-die spirit powered them to respond almost instantly through substitute Uchenna Kanu.

Defender Osinachi Ohale then completed the turnaround early in the second period by heading the Africans in front.

And the game was put beyond the Matildas when Asisat Oshoala clinically added a third after coming off the bench, before Australia grabbed a late consolation.

Ohale, who was injured scoring Nigeria's second, was named Player of the Match for an inspirational display.

Ireland awaits the Super Falcons next, but this victory over the tournament co-hosts provides belief that advancing from Group B remains possible.

For long spells, Australia dictated the tempo and Emily van Egmond deservedly put them ahead in first half stoppage time with a clipped finish.

But remarkably, Nigeria instantly hit back to level less than a minute later when Kanu capitalised on a deflected shot to equalise.

The second half was only 20 minutes old when Ohale powered in a header from a corner to complete the Nigerian resurgence.

The introduction of veteran Oshoala then paid immediate dividends as she latched onto a defensive mix-up to extend the advantage after 72 minutes and became the first African to score in three Women's World Cups.

Alanna Kennedy's late header proved mere consolation for shellshocked Australia, who rarely recovered from Nigeria's spirited fightback.

Now facing an anxious group finale against Canada, coach Tony Gustavsson must rally his stunned Matildas.

But for Nigeria, belief will grow that progression is possible after this dramatic demonstration of their resilience.