Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie received a hero’s welcome at Brighton & Hove Albion Women on Thursday, with teammates and staff giving her applause and a standing ovation as she arrived at the club following her outstanding performances at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
The 24-year-old shot-stopper, who joined the Women’s Super League side this summer on a free transfer from Paris FC, had her arrival delayed due to Nigeria’s successful WAFCON campaign in Morocco, where the Super Falcons claimed a record-extending 10th continental title.
Nnadozie was instrumental in Nigeria’s triumph, keeping four clean sheets whilst conceding just two goals in open play to earn the Best Goalkeeper award and a place in the Team of the Tournament.
Her stellar form has also earned her a nomination for the prestigious Yachine Trophy, awarded to the world’s best women’s goalkeeper, where she will compete against Germany’s Ann-Katrin Berger, Spain’s Cata Coll, England’s Hannah Hampton, and the Netherlands’ Daphne van Domselaar.
Head coach Dario Vidosic hailed her achievements during the welcome ceremony in the dressing room.
“Firstly, it’s important to say welcome and secondly, congratulations on becoming champions of Africa. Hopefully, with us, we can also win some silverware,” Vidosic said.
“Also, congratulations on the nomination for goalkeeper of the year. Everyone’s excited for you to be here… we wish you all the best, and we look forward to you putting on the Brighton gear.”
Nnadozie’s signing marks a historic milestone as she becomes the first Nigerian goalkeeper to play in the English top flight.
The goalkeeper was welcomed with Nigerian flags displayed around the training ground, underlining the significance of her arrival at the club.
Beyond her WAFCON success, Nnadozie was recently honoured by Nigeria’s government with the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) award, a $100,000 cash prize, and a three-bedroom apartment.
She is expected to assume the role of Brighton’s first-choice goalkeeper as Vidosic’s side prepare for the new season, starting with a home fixture against Aston Villa at the Broadfield Stadium on September 7.
Brighton finished fifth in the 2023/24 Women’s Super League season.
