The Super Falcons did Nigeria proud today when they gave European champions England the biggest scare yet before they crashed out of the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
The Falcons fell 4-2 on penalties after both teams were still tied after 120 minutes of action.
Michelle Alozie and Desire Oparanozie missed their kicks for the nine-time African champions.
It was their only loss at the World Cup.
England will now clash with the winners of the Round of 16 clash between Colombia and Jamaica.
Nigeria dragged the reigning European champions all the way to a penalty shootout after the deadlock could not be broken even after extra-time.
The Three Lionesses were even forced to play a person short when Lauren James was sent off after she maliciously stamped on Alozie in an off-the-ball incident.
Both teams had several chances to score in a tension-soaked contest between the fourth best team in the world and Nigeria, who are ranked a distant 40th.
Nigeria were denied a goal by the woodwork in the 19th and 47th minutes.
First, the outstanding Ashleigh Plumptre saw her shot from outside the box come off the crossbar with the England goalkeeper completely beaten.
Then in the second half, Uchenna Kanu saw her header also come off the crossbar.
The Super Falcons ought to have won this game in extra-time as they had England on the back foot.
Despite their exit, President Bola Tinubu saluted the team for a gallant performance.
“I must commend the effort by our Super Falcons at the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Your brilliant performance did not go unnoticed despite the final outcome. You made Nigeria proud on the global stage,” he tweeted soon after the match.
