WINNIPEG, Canada, June 13 — Goals in either half from Kyah Simon lifted Australia to a 2-0 win over African champions Nigeria in their second Group D match at the Women’s World Cup yesterday.

The 23-year-old Sydney FC striker found the net after 29 and 68 minutes at Winnipeg Stadium to give the Matildas their first win of the competition in Canada after their 3-1 opening loss to the United States on Monday.

The game finished in confusion when French referee Stephanie Frappart blew the whistle after less than a minute of extra time while the board indicated there would be four, to the disbelief of players, coaches and fans.

“A couple of minutes can make a difference to a side,” complained Nigeria coach Edwin Okon whose Super Falcons failed to reproduce the style they showed in their stunning comeback from two goals down to draw 3-3 with Sweden in their opener.

Australia now have three points after two games with Nigeria on one.

The United States was playing Sweden later yesterday, with Australia playing the Scandinavian side in their final group game next Tuesday.

Nigeria’s final group game will be against former two-time winners the United States.

Desire Oparanozie had looked dangerous for Nigeria up front early on but her 19th-minute effort was off target.

But the breakthrough came when Australia captain Lisa De Vanna made a driving run through the opposition’s defence after half an hour to set up Simon who sent the ball over Precious Dede in goal.

A rattled Nigeria could have fallen further behind shortly after, but a Simon shot was blocked and De Vanna’s volley off the rebound fired just wide.

Australia goalkeeper Lydia Williams did well to block Oparanozie with a great sliding challenge at the edge of the box as Nigeria pushed forward.

Ngozi Okobi attempted a long-range volley to the delight of the fans but her effort flew high.

The Matildas doubled their lead when Simon picked up a Samantha Kerr cross, with Laura Alleway denied their third by the crossbar in the final minutes. — AFP