Nigeria can book their place in the round of 16 at the 2023 Women’s World Cup on Monday when they take on tricky Republic of Ireland in a Group B clash in Brisbane.

But it will be no simple task against a very organised side, and they will have to be at their best again to get the required result. We look at five talking points ahead of the game.

THE PERMUTATIONS

Victory for Nigeria will see them through to the knockout stages, potentially as pool winners. If they draw, they are also likely to advance as if there is a winner between Canada and co-hosts Australia in that match, they will go through together with the victor there. If Nigeria lose, then they need to hope there is still a winner in the other game. If it ends in a draw, it will push Canada through and leave Nigeria on the same number of points as Australia. A loss by a single goal would leave them both on even goal-difference, and it then comes down to goals scored. They have both managed three in the tournament so far. Finishing top of second could really matter, the runner-up in the pool is likely to face European champions England in the round of 16, while the winner of the group will take on one of China or Denmark, a far more appetizing fixture.

NO PAST HISTORY, BUT …

These two sides have not met before, but the coach of Ireland, Vera Pauw, will know the Nigerians and their coach Randy Waldrum all too well. Dutch coach Pauw was in charge of Banyana Banyana from 2014 to 2016 and had several run-in with the Super Falcons in that time. She also then later took over at United States club Houston Dash in 2017, taking over from Texan-born Waldrum, who had led the side for the previous three seasons. So she will know plenty about his tactical style too. Pauw will know exactly what to expect from the game.

IRISH PLAYING FOR PRIDE

Ireland have already been knocked out of the tournament following narrow losses to Australia (0-1) and Canada (1-2), but in both games they probably deserved more. They were certainly not outplayed and gave a very good account of themselves and will be desperate to leave the tournament on a high. They have bags of passion and pride and will fight to the very end.

IS ASISAT OSHOALA FIT?

Kind of … the key Barcelona playmaker has been batting with injuries for some time but is being managed by Waldrum to ensure she does not completely collapse. He has admitted they have had to tread carefully with the African Women’s Footballer of the Year, but also confirmed that she will play some portion of the game against Ireland. They will clearly need her in the knockout rounds.

CHIAMAKA NNADOZIE IN TOP FORM

Goalkeeper Nnadozie has been one of the best in her position in the tournament, having starred in the goalless draw with Canada – in which she saved a penalty – and made several key saves in the 3-2 win over Australia. You get the feeling she will be crucial again with the Irish likely to go for broke and pepper the Nigeria goal. Can she be a match-winner for a third time?