Assisted by Victoria Pelova, the Netherlands managed to secure a 1-1 draw against the United States in a highly anticipated rematch of the 2019 Women’s World Cup final.

Heading into the tournament in Australia and New Zealand with the ambition of winning back-to-back World Cups, the US Women’s National Team comfortably defeated Vietnam in their opening match. However, the Dutch team surprised them by taking an early lead. Victoria Pelova, known to us, provided the assist to former Arsenal player Jill Roord, whose shot found the bottom left-hand corner of the net.

The Americans, led by captain Lindsay Horan, responded strongly and equalized with a powerful header around the 60-minute mark. With Group E’s outcome still uncertain, the Netherlands now need a positive result against Vietnam on August 1 to secure a spot in the knockout stages.

Meanwhile, in Brisbane, it was a different story for two other Gunners in action, as Australia suffered a surprising defeat against Nigeria, putting their World Cup hopes in jeopardy. Captain Steph Catley had an early opportunity, but Nigeria managed to come from behind to secure a victory.

Caitlin Foord’s efforts on the left wing led to a goal for Emily van Egmond, giving Australia hope, but Nigeria responded swiftly with a quick equalizer by Uchenna Kanu. In the second half, Nigeria extended their lead with goals from Osinachi Ohale and former Arsenal player Asisat Oshoala.

A late consolation goal by Manchester City’s Alanna Kennedy was not enough to salvage a point for Australia, leaving the Matildas with a challenging path to reach the knockout stages