Chiamaka Nnadozie delivered a match-winning performance as Brighton & Hove Albion Women stunned Arsenal Women FC 2–0 to book a place in the semi-finals of the Women’s FA Cup.
At Meadow Park, the Nigerian shot-stopper was simply unbeatable, keeping a clean sheet and making crucial saves to deny the Gunners, sending Brighton into the last four for the fourth time in their history.
Double-H Haley & Hayes Sink the Gunners
After a tense first half, Brighton struck just three minutes into the second period.
Madison Haley latched onto a brilliant through-ball from Fran Kirby and stretched superbly to fire into the top corner, giving the visitors a deserved lead.
The Seagulls doubled their advantage in the 63rd minute when Caitlin Hayes rose highest to meet Kirby’s corner, looping a header beyond Daphne van Domselaar in the Arsenal goal.
Nnadozie Keep Arsenal at Bay
Despite Arsenal’s growing pressure, Nnadozie proved impenetrable.
She produced three big saves, including a stunning close-range stop to deny Smilla Holmberg before half-time.
Earlier, she watched as Van Domselaar tipped over a powerful drive from Jelena Čanković, while Charlie Rule also came close.
The Gunners pushed forward late on, with Alessia Russo, Olivia Smith and Frida Maanum introduced, but Brighton’s defence, marshalled by their Nigerian goalkeeper stood firm.
Another FA Cup Heartbreak for Arsenal
It was yet another frustrating exit for Arsenal, who last lifted the trophy in 2016 despite being the competition’s most successful club.
Coming off a high after defeating Chelsea Women FC to reach the Champions League semi-finals, manager Renée Slegers rotated heavily, making six changes but her side looked fatigued and never truly recovered after going behind.
Nnadozie Reacts: “An Excellent Performance”
The Nigerian international took to social media to celebrate the historic win, writing:
“Into the FA Cup semi-finals. An excellent performance from the whole squad,”
She added:
“Seagulls, for death could not hold Him captive. Happy Easter to you all, Jesus is risen,”
Road to Wembley: Brighton vs Liverpool Confirmed
Brighton’s reward is a mouthwatering semi-final clash against Liverpool FC Women, scheduled for May 10.
Liverpool edged past Charlton Athletic Women 1–0 after extra time to reach the last four, and will be aiming for their first final appearance since 1995.
In the other semi-final, defending champions Chelsea Women FC will face Manchester City Women FC in a blockbuster clash, a repeat of the 2022 final.
Match Details:
- Brighton Women vs Liverpool FC Women
- Chelsea FC Women vs Manchester City Women
Date: May 10
READ MORE: Nnadozie Keeps Back-to-Back Clean Sheets as Brighton Sink Leicester
READ MORE: ‘The World Is Not Ready’ – Nnadozie After Winning Hat-trick CAF Goalkeeper Award
READ MORE: “It’s Embarrassing!” – Super Falcons Stars Slam CAF After WAFCON Postponement
Match Analysis: Brighton Show Title Credentials
Brighton’s performance was far from a lucky smash-and-grab, it was dominant, disciplined, and deserved.
Under Dario Vidošić, the Seagulls executed a smart tactical switch from a back five to a back four in the second half, allowing them to press higher and take control.
Kirby’s experience and creativity unlocked Arsenal’s defence, while Haley and Hayes applied the finishing touches.
Defensively, Brighton showed resilience and composure, with Nnadozie the standout figure, organising the backline and making key interventions when it mattered most.
History Beckons for Nnadozie and the Seagulls
Since arriving last summer, Nnadozie has become a cornerstone of Brighton’s rise, registering seven clean sheets in 18 appearances across all competitions.
Now, with a place at Wembley within reach, Brighton are dreaming of:
- Their first-ever Women’s FA Cup final
- A historic first major trophy
