United States women's soccer team captain Abby Wambach might have complained about holding the FIFA Women's World Cup 2015 matches on artificial turf, but she sure delivered and made well out of it. Her only goal in their last match of the group stages secured the team a spot in the Round-of-16.

The 1-0 victory over Nigeria placed U.S. at the top of their group, which will pit them against Colombia, who finished third in Group F.

The win showed the Americans could score goals in a pitch that has been blamed in the past for Wambach's lack of success in scoring. The U.S. squad were determined to advance and it was seen in the way they dominated the whole 90 minutes of the game, creating a lot of scoring opportunities, noted NPR.

Wambach was on point to receive Megan Rapinoe's curled corner kick to shoot in straight into the net for the first goal of the match, reported MLS Soccer. It is also the captain's first goal in the tournament.

Nigeria expected a tough game and opponent, and was physical throughout the match that resulted to four of its players getting yellow cards. Defender Sarah Nnodim was handed a red card with 20 minutes remaining that left 10 players on the pitch.

The Falcons' chances of equalizing seemed more difficult with one less person inside an attacking opponent who has the lead.

The U.S. team maintained their offensive stance, but was unable to score a second goal when Nigerian goalkeeper Precious Dede blocked Alex Morgan's attempt to further the lead.

U.S. coach Jill Ellis was confident that Wambach could take the team ahead with her leadership.

"I just know Abby. I know big moments, I know she'll deliver," said Ellis to ESPN. "I was really pleased with the investment tonight."

Fellow teammate Christie Rampone thinks Wambach's ability to lead her team was enough to boost their confidence and play their heart out.

"When it comes to big-time games and big moments, she always comes out on top," said Rampone. "She's that leader, that voice that everybody needs out there, as well. She's out there dictating and giving everybody the confidence."