Sinclair, Zadorsky score as Canadian women's soccer team salvages draw in friendly against Nigeria
CBC
Canada's women's soccer team did enough to salvage a draw with Nigeria in a match coach Bev Priestman characterized as "frustrating."
Shelina Zadorsky headed home a cross from Janine Beckie in the 88th minute, much to the delight of a boisterous sold-out crowd of 5,434 Monday night at Starlight Stadium in Langord B.C., as Canada drew the visiting Nigerians 2-2 in a friendly.
In another high point for Canada, captain Christine Sinclair added to her legend, increasing her record tally with her 189th international goal.
But the Olympic champions fell behind early when Ifeoma Onumonu played a cheeky backheel past starting goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan in the fifth minute. It came off a free kick that bounced around in front of Sheridan, who had little chance.
WATCH l Sinclair scores 189th international goal:
Canada immediately pressed and carried much of the play throughout the game. Its best early opportunity came off a free kick by Adriana Leon, which was deflected just over the bar by diving Nigerian keeper Cynthia Nnadozie in the 19th minute.
Beckie then rattled a left-footed offering off the goalpost midway through the half and Kadeisha Buchanan's follow-up was thwarted by a host of Nigerian defenders off the ensuing scramble.
"There were a lot of positives from this game, but it was frustrating" said Canadian coach Bev Priestman. "We had something like 20 shots, but couldn't find the back of the net. These two games in B.C. were valuable exercises. We saw the real Nigeria tonight."
Sinclair was substituted into the game at halftime and wasted little time in evening the score at 1-1 in the 49th minute. Sinclair chipped a left-footer by Nnadozie, who was caught well off her line when her pass was gobbled up by Sinclair after some miscommunication among her defenders.
The tie lasted just four minutes though as Busayo Ajibade's cross sailed over her intended mark, but substitute Canadian 'keeper Sabrina D'Angelo played for the deflection and watched helplessly as it sailed behind her.
The crowd was unfazed, however, coaxing the home side with constant applause, cheers, whistles and some old-fashioned drumming.
WATCH l Zadorsky scores game-tying goal:
The Canadian women ventured to B.C. as part of a celebration tour, recognizing the gold medal they claimed at the Tokyo Olympics last summer.
Numerous fans wore the red of Canada to the Monday game and were treated to a fine night of footy, Island style.
