Nigeria vs Ireland: We will play for pride — Vera Pauw

Republic of Ireland head coach, Vera Pauw has promised to go into the game vs Nigeria to secure a prideful exit from the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

The Girls in Green, whose first ever World Cup appearance is in this tournament are already eliminated from the competition, with the game versus the Super Falcons a dead weight.

Defeats to co-hosts Australia and Olympic champions, Canada, in their opening two fixtures secured their fate in the tournament, making today’s clash against nine-time African champions, Super Falcons only a formality.

The Super Falcons, currently sit atop of Group B, and will need at least a draw to earn a place in the Round of 16, which is dependent on their performance in the fixture.

Vera Pauw claimed her Ireland team won’t lay down for the Super Falcons of Nigeria and will fight hard to end the competition with their pride intact despite their elimination.

A win for home seems the goal for the Irish women team against the Super Falcons, and of course, eliminating the Falcons will be a tale of legends.

“We have a fantastic game to play. Nigeria is ranked 52 [in the world] but we all agree now that they are so, so strong.

“That game is crucial for us, for our feeling, our pride and for the tournament,” she was quoted on BBC Sport.