Nigeria international, Chiamaka Nnadozie announced her arrival in English football with a statement performance on Sunday, keeping a clean sheet on her Barclays Women’s Super League (WSL) debut for Brighton & Hove Albion Women in a goalless draw against Aston Villa.
The reigning African Goalkeeper of the Year, who joined Brighton from Paris FC this summer, not only made history as the first African goalkeeper to ever play in the WSL.
She also etched her name in the record books by becoming the first African goalkeeper to keep a clean sheet in the competition.
Historic Debut Between the Posts for Chiamaka Nnadozie
Chiamaka Nnadozie was a wall in goal for Brighton, was called into action several times and rose to the occasion, producing a beautiful display across the 90 minutes.
She made four saves, including two crucial stops inside the box and registered two high claims, three punches, five clearances, and two aerial duel wins.
Her sweeping ability was also on display, completing 2/2 successful sweeper runs to snuff out Villa’s counterattacks.
Beyond her shot-stopping, the 24-year-old was heavily involved in Brighton’s build-up play, recording 44 touches and distributing with calmness under pressure, the most for a goalkeeper on the pitch.
Her presence was commanding as she:
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Produced two crucial saves inside the box,
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Completed two successful sweeper runs,
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Registered two aerial duel wins,
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Added three punches and five clearances,
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And completed two high claims under pressure.
Her all-round brilliance earned her a match rating of 7.6; the highest of any Brighton player, with many outlets naming her the Player of the Match.
From Paris to Brighton: A Superstar’s Journey
Nnadozie’s arrival in England follows a sensational 2025 campaign with Paris FC and the Super Falcons of Nigeria.
Her accolades over the past year included:
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17 clean sheets in all competitions for Paris FC
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Coupe de France winner with Paris FC
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UEFA Women’s Champions League qualification with Paris FC
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French league playoff appearance
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2024 WAFCON champion with Nigeria’s Super Falcons
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WAFCON Golden Glove winner
Her performances have established her as one of the best goalkeepers in world football, and Brighton wasted no time in securing her services ahead of the 2025/26 season.
Brighton’s Defensive Boost
Brighton have every reason to believe their new No.1, who is already making an immediate impact, can be a game-changer this season.
The Seagulls will be encouraged by their strong defensive showing against Aston Villa as they prepare for upcoming league fixtures later this month.
This debut performance is a statement of intent for Chiamaka Nnadozie that she is ready to dominate the WSL with her blend of shot-stopping excellence, aerial command, and distribution quality, just as she did in France and on the African stage.
