2015 WOMEN'S WORLD CUP:

Wambach strike sends Falcons home

Wambach's winning goal against Nigeria by FIFA

ABBY Wambach scored late in the first half and the U.S. women’s national team went on to beat Nigeria Super Falcons 1-0 on Tuesday night for a first-place finish in its group at the Women’s World Cup.

It was Wambach’s 14th World Cup goal, pulling her even with Birgit Prinz for second on the all-time list behind Brazil’s Marta, who has 15.

Julie Johnston had the best chance for the United States early, but her strike in the eighth minute was ruled offside. Minutes later, U.S. goalkeeper Hope Solo dove to stop Asisat Oshoala’s attempt.

Falcons shot-stopper, Precious Dede was called to duty as she had to punch Megan Rapinoe’s long 25-foot blast in the 17th minute.

The Falcons resillence was finally broken as Wambach finally put the United States ahead just before the end of the half when she rushed in on a corner kick from Megan Rapinoe and volleyed the ball into the goal at the far post.