Two-time world champions Germany beat Nigeria 3-0 at the Stade des Alpes in Grenoble to advance to the quarterfinals of the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup in France.
Goals from Alexandra Popp, Sara Daebritz and Lea Schueller handed the Germans victory.
Captain Popp, on her 100th international appearance, headed the Germans in front after 20 minutes following a corner kick by Lina Magull.
Germany were awarded a penalty minutes later when Evelyn Nwabuoku fouled Magull while attempting to clear the ball in the penalty area.
Sara Dabritz stepped up and converted the penalty to double the Germans’ advantage.
Nigeria had a chance to reduce the deficit in the second half but Desire Oparanozie failed to connect with substitute Rasheedat Ajibade’s cross.
Lea Schuller sealed the win with a first-time shot on the edge of the penalty area on 82 minutes capitalising on a loose pass by Halimat Ayinde.
Germany will now play against either Sweden or Canada in the quarterfinals on Saturday in Rennes.
