Nigeria entered the 2023 women’s World Cup as longshots to advance out of the group stage, but they now hold the top spot in the pod heading into the final match against Ireland. Nigeria can qualify for the round of 16 with a win or draw. They have a slim path to advance with a loss, but would need help. Ireland have already been eliminated from contention for the knockout round and are hoping to play spoiler here.
Here’s everything you need to know for the match, along with odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook.
Ireland v. Nigeria
Date: Monday, July 31
Time: 6 a.m. ET
TV Channel: FS1, Universo
Live stream: Foxsports.com, Fox Sports App, Peacock
Odds, picks & predictions
Ireland: +210
Draw: +225
Nigeria: +125
Moneyline pick: Nigeria +125
The Super Falcons have been at every women’s World Cup in history, so it was a bit odd to see them as heavy underdogs to advance out of the group. Perhaps that helped them play with less pressure, and it has paid off. Nigeria got to the round of 16 in 2019 and will be hoping to make it back-to-back knockout appearances for the first time in the country’s history.
Ireland really have nothing to play for outside of spoiling Nigeria’s tournament, while the African side are looking at a knockout spot. That alone should push Nigeria over the top. Getting plus odds here is a bit of a steal.