New kids on the block: Falcons impressive World Cup debutants

<p>The Super Falcons are out of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup after going down 4-2 to England via penalty shootout. Nigeria produced an outstanding performance at the tournament, with some of the players making their World Cup debuts showcasing their special talents on the global stage. Drawn in Group B, Nigeria played a goalless draw with Canada in their opening fixture, before a 3-2 win over co-hosts Australia in their second match. They ended the preliminary rounds with a 0-0 draw against the Republic of Ireland to set up a mouthwatering clash with England in the Round of 16, where their journey ended against the English ladies. Here, PETER AKINBO brings you five Super Falcons who stood out amongst the debutants:</p>, <p>Ashleigh Plumptre</p>, <p>Left-back Plumptre left an indelible mark on the Falcons’ journey to Australia. Her ability in containing opponents bolstered the team’s defensive stronghold, ensuring stability at the rear.</p>, <p>Since her transition from an England youth international to becoming a Nigeria international after her debut against Ivory Coast February 18, 2022, the versatile defender has continued to churn out outstanding displays for the former African champions.</p>, <p>And Australia was the right stage for her to show the world she’s made of and Plumptre grabbed the chance with both hands, putting up commanding performances in the Falcons’ all four games.</p>, <p>Against England, she put up a standout performance from the left side of defence, and going forward, she posed a great threat and was unlucky not to have scored, after she rocked the post and had another effort brilliantly saved. The exited on penalties, but Plumptre left the tournament with her head held high.</p>, <p>Toni Payne</p>, <p>Call her the Falcons engine room, you won’t be wrong. US-born midfield maestro Payne was a delight to watch with her sublime passes and mazy runs, as well as attacking threat.</p>, <p>Payne’s disruptive force in midfield contributed largely to the team’s unbeaten run in regulation time,