Brighton & Hove Albion head coach Dario Vidosic has lauded new signing Chiamaka Nnadozie after the Nigerian goalkeeper marked her Women’s Super League debut with a clean sheet in a goalless draw against Aston Villa.
Speaking after the match, Vidosic was proud of how his side’s debutants handled the occasion, singling out Nnadozie for her presence and composure.
“Chia didn’t have to make any massive saves, but she commanded her area well and the players in front of her protected her very well,” Vidosic said.
“Overall, I think we would’ve liked to have controlled the game a lot more, but in that first half I thought we had opportunities.”
“We were maybe a bit too safe at times, but once we settled it down we looked a lot better in possession, kept it for longer periods, and then it was again just maybe down to decision-making.”
“There was a lot to learn but also a lot of good things.”
A Historic Moment for Nigerian Football
23-year-old goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie has already made history, becoming the first Nigerian to play in the Women’s Super League — and the first to keep a clean sheet on her debut.
Fresh from an impressive campaign with the Super Falcons at WAFCON 2024, she played with the calm authority that made her such a special signing for Brighton after her move from Paris FC.
A Key Piece for Brighton’s Future
Vidosic made clear that Nnadozie is central to his long-term vision for Brighton, describing her as a cornerstone of the team’s ambitions in the WSL.
With Brighton aiming for a strong league finish, Nnadozie’s debut has already set the tone for what looks like a defining chapter aiming at the the club’s growth and in her career.
