Nigeria will face Australia in their second group match at the FIFA Women’s World Cup in three days, but there’s very little changes expected from the former African champions from their opening game of the tournament.

A goalless result against Canada at the Melbourne Rectangular Stadium earned Nigeria not only a valuable point, but also a clean sheet.

So, ahead of the Australia match Randy Waldrum could apply a more defensive approach against the Co-host before a crowd that’s expected to hit over 50,000 capacity at Lang Park.

The Super Falcons will look to defend as they did against Canada, who were, by a long shot the favourites to win.

However, just Waldrum had suggested even before the start of the World Cup, Australia would be the biggest test for his team.

Regardless though, Super Falcons Fans should also well look forward to a much better offensive play with the introduction of Rasheedat Ajibade into the squad, after she served her suspension.

In the attacking phase of things, the Super Falcons would almost certainly employ a counter-attacking approach, this seems to be the most viable option as the team, does not offer much in terms of creativity.

So, knowing that the team would almost certainly be second-best in keeping the ball, it means Australia will be more on the offensive.

Now, based on that foundation, ‘industry’ might be the best word of the day for the Super Falcons, alongside pace.

In the game against Canada, substitute Uchenna Kanu added verve to the Nigerian attack following her introduction in the second half.

She drove the ball with such speed, and practically, almost single-handedly caused a panic in the Canadian defence.

Probably only subjectively though, Monday Gift has shown herself to be really brilliant on the wings for the Super Falcons and looks to be a more dependable output.

Despite growing frustrations over her slow start to the tournament, Asisat Oshoala could get the nod ahead of Ifeoma Onumonu.

But, Onumonu showed how well she could combine in a two-player attack and could be a consideration for to pair Oshoala.

On the right wing, we saw a wonderful performance from Rasheedat Ajibade in that role as an inverted winger during the last Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, where she was arguably the best Super Falcons player.

Her composure and ability to hold on to the ball would be of good use in the number 10 role so the Falcons can at least be able to sustain a little bit of pressure and attacking intent when they have the ball.

On the left wing should be the pacy and highly technical Esther Okoronkwo. She is super fast, swift-footed and also really good on the transition and picking a good final pass and of course full of flair.

All these qualities are what any coach would want in an outright winger, her selfless play would also be important. Her ability to find space would expose a lot in the Australian defence.

While the absence of Sam Kerr would even things up, only slightly though, the Women’s World Cup co-hosts are still the bookmakers favorites.

Also, three points for Nigeria in the match would significantly increase the chances of Nigeria moving on to the next round of the tournament.