Australia vs Nigeria Predictions, Odds & Sports Betting Tips 07/27/2023

Host nation Australia take on Nigeria in a crucial Group B game on Thursday. Australia opened their campaign with a hard fought 1-0 win over Ireland, whilst Nigeria held Canada to a goalless draw.

That all means there is a lot on the line in this game. Victory for either side will put them in pole position to qualify for the last sixteen, whilst defeat would leave their hopes in the balance. If you want to find a betting bonus for the game, then read on to discover our expert prediction.

Australia’s 1-0 victory over Ireland on gameday one wasn’t a vintage display, but few Matildas fans will care. Three points were the perfect start and means the Aussies can virtually guarantee progress with another three points here.

Star striker Sam Kerr is still missing through injury. In her absence against Ireland, the Aussies lacked a focal point in attack. Whilst they may still have enough to get out of the group, a fit Kerr is essential if Australia are to have a deep run in the tournament.

Nigeria were delighted with their point against Canada on gameday one. They had to overcome the concession of a penalty and a red card, but bravely fought to a stalemate.

Before that Canada draw, Nigeria had been in excellent form with three successive victories, all against teams that have qualified for the World Cup. They will be up against it in this one, but Nigeria can be a tough team to break down and will not make life easy for the Aussies.

Australia and Nigeria met at the 2015 World Cup, with the Aussies emerging 2-0 winners in a Group game. Kyah Simon scored both goals on that occasion. That was the two sides' last meeting in any competition.

Our sports betting tip for the game considers an array of statistical highlights relating to the recent form of the two sides and their historical records.

If you look at the football betting odds for the game, you will find  Australia priced at around 11/25. On the flip side, most betting apps have Nigeria at 15/2, with the draw best priced at around 7/2.

There have been plenty of tight games in the tournament so far, and we expect that to continue here. That being said, the Aussies should just about have enough to claim all three points.

The key to this game could be the Aussie defence, which has gone five games without conceding a goal. It is hard to see Nigeria putting an end to that run, and we expect Australia to edge a close game.