Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has been shortlisted for the October British Gas Women’s Super League (WSL) Save of the Month, Soccernet.ng reports.
Nnadozie’s latest recognition comes following her spectacular stop in Brighton & Hove Albion’s narrow 1-0 loss to Tottenham Hotspur a couple of weeks ago.
The 24-year-old, who joined Brighton earlier this season , has quickly established herself as one of the standout goalkeepers in the WSL.
Her nominated save came from a powerful free-kick by Tottenham’s Eveliina Summanen, whose low, bending strike pierced through the Brighton wall before Nnadozie stretched full-length to push the ball wide. It was a stunning reflex stop that drew loud applause from both sets of supporters.
Despite Brighton’s defeat, Nnadozie’s display in goal was described as ‘world-class' by commentators.
The former Paris FC star faces tough competition for the monthly honour from Phallon Tullis-Joyce (Manchester United), Daphne van Domselaar (Arsenal), Emily Ramsey (Everton), and Janina Leitzig (Leicester City). Fans can vote for their favourite save on the Barclays WSL official website.
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A remarkable year for Nnadozie
Nnadozie’s nomination is the latest in a string of individual accolades that showcases her rise as one of Africa’s finest goalkeepers in history.
Earlier this year, she was crowned Best Goalkeeper at the delayed 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after guiding Nigeria to their record-extending 10th title. She was also named Player of the Match on her Brighton debut.
In September, she became the first Nigerian and African goalkeeper ever nominated for the Women’s Yachine Trophy, which recognises the world’s best female goalkeeper. Though Chelsea’s Hannah Hampton claimed the award, Nnadozie’s inclusion among the finalists reflected her growing global stature.
The Nigerian shot-stopper has also been nominated for the CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year, a prize she is widely tipped to win for the third consecutive year.
Currently, Nnadozie is with the Super Falcons in Abeokuta, where Nigeria are preparing for their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Benin Republic. She kept a clean sheet as Nigeria defeated Benin 2-0 in the first leg in Togo last week, and she is expected to start the return leg on Tuesday.
Nigeria only need to avoid defeat to secure a spot at next year’s WAFCON, and with Nnadozie in such imperious form, that task looks well within reach.
