Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the Women’s World Cup quarter-finals were crushed after a dramatic penalty shootout defeat to England on Monday.

Despite playing over half the match with just 10 players, the Europeans showed their steel to edge past the Super Falcons 4-2 on penalties.

In a tense last 16 clash at Brisbane Stadium, Nigeria came within a whisker of taking the lead when Ashleigh Plumptre’s thunderous shot crashed off the bar.

VAR then denied England a penalty after reviewing Rasheedat Ajibade’s tussle with Rachel Daly.

The turning point came late on when England forward Lauren James was sent off for treading on Michelle Alozie, giving Nigeria belief.

Uchenna Kanu spurned a great headed chance during normal time, while keeper Chiamaka Nnadozie made a brilliant save to thwart Rachel Daly.

With Nigeria finishing extra time strongly, the shootout was a chance to make history by reaching the quarter-finals.

But agonisingly, the first two Nigerian penalty takers missed the target before Chloe Kelly sealed the 4-2 shootout win for England.

The heartbreaking loss ends Nigeria’s World Cup adventure at the last 16 stage.

But the Super Falcons have done Africa proud with their fearless performances in Australia and New Zealand and leave with their heads held high.