Nigeria (5) v (3) Finland

By Matthew Price

NIGERIA held off Finland to go top of group D in a closely-fought match at Melbourne Pitch on Tuesday afternoon.

The African side was always in control after scoring the opening two goals, winning 5-3 despite a tireless performance from Finland in the second half.

Both sides fielded women players in a contest expected to be close, after the teams achieved identical results in the opening round of matches.

Finland beat Norway on penalties on Monday after a 5-5 draw, while Nigeria took full points after an identical result against Italy.

In sticky conditions, the Nigerians went ahead early with fine interplay from their forwards.

They were 2-0 in front and looking composed before Finland struck back through the only woman on the pitch at that stage – Anne Hirvasvuopio. She coolly slid a penalty kick beneath the Nigerian goalkeeper to make the score 2-1.

The Finns showed plenty of hustle but Nigeria remained resilient in defence and slick in attack, advancing to a 4-1 lead after half-time before Carl Enkenberg toe-poked home for Finland.

Nigeria's female player, Chioma Grace Edoziem, entered the pitch in the second half, showing poise and commitment to cut out several promising Finn attacks.

Enkenberg carved out a third Finn goal as the Scandinavian side threatened a boilover in the closing minutes.

But Nigeria were too clinical and added a fifth with a crisp strike from the right flank.

Photos: Photoworx