The Matildas’ World Cup chances have been boosted by Kyah Simon, who scored a goal in each half to help record a 2-0 win over Nigeria.

Simon’s double at the competition in Canada has given the Matildas a route to the knockout stages.

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Australian skipper Lisa De Vanna turned provider against the African champions with a determined drive.
De Vanna, who shrugged off an ankle complaint to play, bustled past two defenders and was hacked down by a third just as she released Simon on the left.

The striker finished cleanly with her non-preferred left foot past Nigerian keeper Precious Dede.

The 23-year-old added to her tally in the second half by beating the offside trap and volleying home Sam Kerr’s ball over the top.

While the Matildas didn’t reproduce their effervescent best from Tuesday morning’s loss to the United States, the reversed result delighted coach Alen Stajcic.

Simon was one of three players recalled to the starting line-up, alongside first-choice goalkeeper Lydia Williams and central defender Alanna Kennedy.

Kerr and Katrina Gorry provided Australia’s early running before Simon took control.

Overcoming an ACL injury to take her place at the tournament, Sydney FC striker Simon celebrated her goals richly.

Australia’s defenders, recast by Kennedy’s inclusion, were sharp and always aware to counter the Nigerian threat.

In the game’s late stages, Kerr looked to be the victim of a vicious elbow to the face from Nigerian defender Ugo Njoku, leaving the field in tears.

The tenacious forward returned to the field to see a De Vanna volley well saved by Dede and Laura Alleway’s flick hit the crossbar as the Matildas looked to add to their tally.

With Nigeria offering a disjointed performance, the Matildas secured the win that lifts them to second in Group D.