Goals in either half from Kyah Simon lifted Australia to a 2-0 win over African champions Nigeria in their second Group D match at the Women's World Cup on Friday.

The 23-year-old Sydney FC striker found the net after 29 and 68 minutes at Winnipeg Stadium to give the Matildas their first win of the competition in Canada after their 3-1 opening loss to the United States on Monday.

Nigeria failed to reproduce the style the Super Falcons showed in their stunning comeback from two goals down to draw 3-3 with Sweden in their opener.

The United States play Sweden later on Friday, with Australia playing the Scandinavian side in their final group game next Tuesday.

Nigeria's final group game will be against former two-time winners the United States.