The Nigerian selection surprised by drawing with Canada (0-0), and Switzerland complied by winning against the Philippines (0-2) on Friday during the second day of the Women’s World Cup, which takes place in New Zealand and Australia until August 20.

The Canadian team, number 7 in the FIFA world rankings, began their journey in the tournament against the “a priori” most affordable opponent in Group B, the physical Nigerian team led by striker Asisat Oshoala, player of FC Barcelona.

The “canucks” carried the brunt of the game from the start, while Randy Waldrum’s men waited with a low block, which easily defended the North American attacks. As the minutes went by, the Africans improved and in the final stretch they disturbed their opponents with a fast vertical game, led by their star, which was a headache for the Canadian defense.

Early in the second half, Canada had its best chance; Francisca Ordega knocked down Christine Sinclair and, after consulting VAR, the referee signaled a penalty, but Sinclair missed. After that, the match was halted, giving both teams chances, but the lack of success was the common denominator.

The best chance was in the boots of midfielder Sophie Schmidt, who sent a shot to the post in injury time. Nigerian midfielder Deborah Abiodun was also sent off at the last minute for a vile tackle.

SWITZERLAND COMPLIES AGAINST PHILIPPINES AND IS GROUP FIRST

In the second match of Group A, Switzerland took on the Cinderella of the group, the Philippines, intent on avoiding the upset New Zealand already gave with a 2-0 victory over Norway in the game that opened the World Championship.

The Swiss, much superior from the start, had control of the ball from the first minute, while the Asians waited with a very compact defense, trying to find an opportunity on the counter, which Katrina Guillou achieved after a quarter of an hour.

But Guillou’s goal was disallowed for offside. On the verge of half-time, Switzerland took the lead thanks to a Ramona Bachman penalty. The moral blow of that goal just before half-time brought down the Philippines, which their opponents took advantage of to extend their lead.

The Helvetians gained such an advantage thanks to a 64th-minute goal from Seraina Piubel. With this victory, Inka Grings’ side became the provisional leaders of their group, before facing a key duel against the Norwegian team next Tuesday.