After a nervy start, the Super Falcons finally got going in this contest against the South American champions Brazil.
A goal by Gabi Nunes is what separates the two teams after 45 minutes of action in this Group C clash.
On 15 minutes, striker Chinwendu Ihezuo denied by the agile Brazil goalkeeper, who then had to push away a powerful shot by Christy Ucheibe for a corner almost immediately.
Skipper Rasheedat Ajibade shone brightly on the right flank and it was her individual brilliance that had unlocked the defence of the Samba Girls.
In the 21st minute, Brazil forward Portilo failed to connect home a low square play from the left.
Martha’s effort in the 36th minute from inside the box was then chalked off by VAR for offside, before Brazil responded well to open scores through Gabi Nunes, who sprinted into the box to fire an unstoppable shot past goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie.
