Super Falcons goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie delivered another strong performance in goal, but it was not enough to prevent Brighton & Hove Albion Women from suffering a third defeat in seven days, as they fell 1-0 to Arsenal in the Women’s Super League at the Emirates Stadium.
The loss followed earlier defeats to Tottenham Hotspur in the WSL and West Ham United in the League Cup, capping a difficult week for Dario Vidosic’s side.
Arsenal end winless streak with narrow victory
Arsenal ended their four-match winless run in all competitions, but they were far from convincing despite dominating early possession.
The Gunners took the lead in the 15th minute, when Olivia Smith’s low shot deflected off Marisa Olislagers and wrong-footed Nnadozie.
Brighton responded well, forcing Arsenal goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar into two fine saves from Kiko Seike before halftime.
After the break, the visitors came close again as Carla Camacho’s header was kept out, while Maelys Mpome cleared off the line to deny Arsenal a second.
Chiamaka Nnadozie Stands Tall Amid Defensive Frailties
Despite conceding the only goal of the game, Nnadozie, who entered the weekend as the WSL’s leading save maker, impressed once more.
The Nigerian international produced two outstanding stops to deny Caitlin Foord from close range and showed sharp reflexes throughout.
However, her high positioning during some Arsenal breaks caused anxious moments for Brighton, who have now lost eight consecutive away games against the Gunners, conceding 27 goals in those fixtures.
Vidosic’s team also felt the absence of Michelle Agyemang and Rose Kafaji, both on loan from Arsenal and therefore ineligible to feature.
Arsenal pushed for a second late on, with Stina Blackstenius striking the bar and narrowly missing another chance, but the hosts held on for a much-needed victory that lifted them to fifth place in the WSL, five points behind leaders Chelsea.
What’s next
Arsenal’s next match comes on Thursday, 16 October, when they travel to face Benfica in the UEFA Women’s Champions League. They will resume WSL action away to Leicester City on Sunday, 2 November.
Brighton, meanwhile, return to action in the Women’s League Cup Group C against Southampton on Sunday, 19 October, before hosting Manchester United in the WSL on Sunday, 2 November.
