Chiamaka Nnadozie keeps a clean sheet and wins Player of the Match in her Brighton debut as the Super Falcons goalkeeper begins WSL campaign

Chiamaka Nnadozie made an unforgettable Women’s Super League (WSL) debut for Brighton and Hove Albion on Sunday, delivering a clean sheet and winning Player of the Match in a goalless draw against Aston Villa.

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The Super Falcons goalkeeper, who joined Brighton this summer from French side Paris FC, was a standout performer in her first official match for coach Dario Vidosic’s team, as the 2025/26 WSL season kicked off.

At just 24 years old, Nnadozie demonstrated composure and class beyond her years, making four crucial saves to deny a determined Villa attack.

She also made 46 touches throughout the 90 minutes, reflecting her command of the area and involvement in build-up play.

“Chiamaka Nnadozie’s presence was immense. She’s given us a solid foundation,” a club official was quoted as saying after the match.

The match itself was a closely contested battle, with both teams showing flashes of quality but limited clear chances.

Despite Aston Villa’s dangerous counter-attacks, Nnadozie’s heroics kept Brighton level in front of the home fans.

Coach Vidosic praised his side’s discipline and second-half improvement:

“We knew Villa would try to catch us in transition… but I thought we dealt with it very well,” he said. “I’m proud of how we grew into the game.”

For Nnadozie, it was the perfect introduction to English football — one that solidifies her growing reputation as one of Africa’s finest exports in the women’s game.

The reigning CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year is expected to play a pivotal role in Brighton’s campaign this season.

Known for her athleticism, vocal leadership, and quick reflexes, Nnadozie is already proving to be one of the Seagulls’ best summer acquisitions.

Having impressed on the global stage with the Super Falcons, her move to the WSL was seen as a natural progression in her career.