Winnipeg, Canada--Goals in either half from Kyah Simon lifted Australia to a 2-0 win over African champions Nigeria in their second Group D match at the Women's World Cup on Friday.
The 23-year-old Sydney FC striker, making her comeback from a career-threatening knee injury, found the net after 29 and 68 minutes at Winnipeg Stadium to give the Matildas their first win of the competition in Canada after their 3-1 opening loss to the United States on Monday.
The game finished in confusion when French referee Stephanie Frappart blew the whistle after less than a minute of extra time while the board indicated there would be four, to the disbelief of players, coaches and fans.
"A couple of minutes can made a difference to a side," complained Nigeria coach Edwin Okon whose Super Falcons failed to reproduce the style they showed in their stunning comeback from two goals down to draw 3-3 with Sweden in their opener.
"We're not happy with the officiating, but the referee is in charge of the game," he added.
Australia now have three points after two games with Nigeria on one.
"It was a tough battle out there in the heat," said Australia coach Alen Stajcic. "We were the most clinical side and those couple of key moments won us the game."
AFP
