An intriguing battle is sure to be on the cards as Canada and Nigeria lock horns on matchday one of the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup. For Canada, who have been in lousy form leading into this competition, this game could present a chance for Christine Sinclair and her teammates to shake off the doubts about how far they can go in this competition. Bev Priestman's side have won just one of their last five games prior to this tournament, albeit two of those disappointing results were to the USWNT and England, who just so happen to be the reigning World Cup and EURO winners respectively.
Canada, who are the reigning Olympic champions after winning gold two years ago, nonetheless will hope that their disappointing run at World Cups will end this summer. Since 2003, when they finished in fourth, they have repeatedly come up short, including four years ago when they were edged out by Sweden in the round of 16. This time around, Canada do have a fair chance at getting out of their group, which is a balanced quartet including upcoming opponents Nigeria, tournament co-hosts Australia, and debutants Ireland.
In addition, Canada are unbeaten in their last two meetings against Nigeria, both of which took place in 2022. Overall, they've lost just one of their last five clashes with the Super Falcons, but Randy Waldrum's team will be determined to change that narrative this summer. Spearheaded by Barcelona star Asisat Oshoala, who enjoyed another prolific season in front of goal for her team, the Super Falcons are looking to finally make their mark in what will be their ninth World Cup appearance.
Although their last two games prior to this competition ended in defeats, Nigeria will aim to show that the fact that they are surprisingly ranked 40th by FIFA - even behind debutants Ireland - means nothing as they seek to fly the flag for the African continent and make it to what would be their third knockout round appearance in team history.
It won't be easy, as the Super Falcons will also have to take on an Australia side who have a home pitch advantage, but certainly, Group B could shape up to be one of the more interesting ones at this summer's competition.
Team news: Nigeria vs Canada
Nigeria: No injury concerns for Nigeria ahead of this match.
Canada: Only Chelsea's Jessie Fleming may be in doubt for this game as the midfielder continues to battle her way back to full fitness.
Match facts: Nigeria vs Canada
- Nigeria are one of a handful of teams to have featured at every single Women's World Cup since the inaugural edition in 1991
- Meanwhile, Canada have featured in every World Cup after missing out on the first edition in 1991
- Although Nigeria have featured at all nine World Cups, they have only made it to the knockout rounds on two occasions
- Canada have won their last two World Cup openers (1-0 in both)
- Nigeria have won just one of their last five meetings with Canada (D2 L2)
Broadcast info: Nigeria vs Canada
Where can I watch Nigeria vs Canada live?
USA: For fans in the USA, there are plenty of options to tune into Nigeria vs Canada, which kicks off at 10.30 PM EST (7.30 PM PST). The game will be broadcast live on TV via FOX Network, while those who either prefer to live stream it can check out Peacock and Foxsports.com. And for those looking to follow the game while on the go, FOX Sports App is a solid choice.
As for Spanish-speakers, they can choose from UNIVERSO, UNIVERSO NOW, and Telemundo Deportes En Vivo to stay updated of all the action taking place in what should be an interesting clash.
Canada: Meanwhile, Canadian supporters looking to cheer on Christine Sinclair and her teammates also have a plethora of choices. English-speaking fans can check out CTV, TSN4, and TSN1 while Francophones can take a look at RDS. For an on-the-go experience there's CTV App and TSN+ (for English speakers) and RDS App (for French speakers).
Live elsewhere? Here's where you can watch Nigeria vs Canada live from wherever you are based:
Match details, result and original broadcast info
This match has ended. Below are the original Live broadcast details for this match.
Live TV coverage and streaming in United States
Live TV coverage and streaming in United States
