No appearance for Barrett or Grant as Ireland see out World Cup with Nigeria draw

The Republic of Ireland concluded their Fifa Women's World Cup campaign with a 0-0 draw against Nigeria at Brisbane Stadium in Australia.

Verra Pauw’s side owned plenty of the ball in the first half although  Kyra Carusa’s header from Louise Quinn’s knock back from Katie McCabe’s corner was the only time Chamaka Nnadozi was forced into a save. Ireland captain McCabe also fizzed an effort just wide of the post from the edge of the penalty area.

Ireland knew there was no chance of progression to the next round following a 1-0 loss to Australia and then a 2-1 defeat to Canada but the point is their frist ever at the finals, against a side who have been crowned champions of Africa 11 times. 

With Australia running out 4-0 winners over Canada, Nigeria knew a win, draw or even a narrow loss to Ireland would be enough to qualify to the last 16 and a probable meeting with England. 

Courtney Brosnan made a brilliant 52nd minute save to push Uchenna Kanu header onto the crossbar. Pauw resisted making any changes until six minutes from time, with Marissa Sheva and Abbie Larkin introduced before an injury-time appearance from Diane Caldwell. Amber Barrett from Milford and Letterkenny's Ciara Grant were unused substitutes.