PLAYER RATING: How Super Falcons fared

June 9, 2015 2:42 am

Super Falcons of Nigeria fought back from 2-0 and 3-2 deficits to play a 3-3 draw with Sweden in their Women’s World Cup opener at Winnipeg Stadium on Monday.

But how did the players fare against the 5th ranked team in the world?

Precious Dede: Despite conceding three goals in the game, was not particularly called into action for most part of the match. The few times she was, the Nigeria No1 displayed her shaky nerves. 5

Osinachi Ohale: The Nigeria right-back didn’t really come tops in her mini duel with Therese Sjogran but was not subdued either. Was quite effective going forward. 6

Ngozi Ebere: Like her teammate at the other end of the Super Falcons defence, Ebere played her part well. No frills, no thrills but quite effective. 6

Onome Ebi: Was caught ball watching in the two goals conceded from corner kicks. Redeemed her game after providing the assist for Asisat Oshoala’s second half equaliser. 6

Josephine Chukwunonye: Like her partner in the heart of the team’s defense, Chukwunonye couldn’t cut off the aerial threats of the Swedes from set-pieces. 5

Asisat Oshoala: The golden shoe winner at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Canada 2014 opened her account in this tournament with a fine individual effort. She missed two chances earlier in the game and was caught off-side more than once. 7

Ngozi Okobi: Scored one and provided another and at the end of the game, FIFA’s Technical Study Group (TSG) named her Player of the Match. Truly deserved! 8.5

Francisca Ordega: The 21-year old striker scored in the 87th minute to salvage a point for the 33rd-ranked Nigeria. She had a good game. 7

Evelyn Nwabuoku: Had an underwhelming game as the Swedes took control of the midfield. Came alive in the dying minutes as the team went on the ascendancy. 5.5

Halimatu Ayinde: Like her captain in the midfield, Ayinde had a quiet game. 5

Desire Oparanozie: Deflected a somewhat harmless header by Emma Berglund into Dede’s net. But had a lively game and forced a fine save from the Swedish goalkeeper in the 72nd minute. 6.5