Christine Sinclair was stopped on a penalty and Canada played to a 0-0 draw with Nigeria in the Women’s World Cup opener for both teams on Friday in Melbourne.
Nigeria goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie blocked Sinclair’s low shot in the 50th minute, denying the Canadian captain from becoming the first player in soccer history to score in six World Cups.
Sinclair was given the penalty kick after a VAR review. Francisca Ordega took her down in the area, leading to the penalty for soccer’s all-time leading international scorer.
Canada was favoured in the match, being ranked seventh in the world as compared to No. 40 for Nigeria.
The reigning Olympic champs are looking to hit the World Cup podium for the first time.
Canada’s next match is Wednesday against Ireland.
More to come.
