Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has weighed in on the performance of Chiamaka Nnadozie in Nigeria's 3-2 defeat to Malawi in their opening game of the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations, Soccernet.ng reports.
Nnadozie kept her place as the undisputed first choice goalkeeper as the Super Falcons began the defence of their continental title. However, it was a night to forget for the three-time defending African Women's Goalkeeper of the Year.
The 25-year-old was at fault for all three goals Nigeria conceded, with her mistakes raising questions over whether head coach Justin Madugu should consider making a change in goal for the team's next match.
For Malawi's opener, Nnadozie rushed off her line but hesitated at the crucial moment, allowing Temwa Chawinga to score. She was then involved in a mix-up with defender Osinachi Ohale, which gifted Tabitha Chawinga Malawi's second goal.
Although Rasheedat Ajibade pulled one back for Nigeria, Nnadozie was again caught too far off her line, allowing Temwa Chawinga to restore Malawi's two-goal advantage.
Uchenna Kanu scored late to set up a nervy finish, but Nnadozie's costly errors ultimately proved decisive as Nigeria suffered a shock defeat in their tournament opener.
Super Falcons: Nwabali defends Nnadozie amid backlash
The Brighton goalkeeper has come under heavy criticism from supporters following her below par performance, with calls for her to be dropped after she showed signs of rustiness.
Despite the criticism that followed Nnadozie's performance, Nwabali publicly showed his support for his international teammate, who recently teased him to join her at the Premier League club.
The Chippa United goalkeeper, who understands the pressure that comes with representing Nigeria on the biggest stage, praised Nnadozie in a post on his social media.
Rather than dwelling on her mistakes, he described her as one of the best goalkeepers he has seen and encouraged her to stay confident and bounce back stronger.
Nnadozie will now be hoping to respond with a much-improved performance when the Super Falcons take on Zambia on Saturday. The Copper Queens head into the game full of confidence after beginning their campaign with a dominant 6-0 victory over Egypt on Tuesday.
The Super Falcons must avoid another defeat if they are to keep their hopes of defending the WAFCON title alive and a win will also strengthen their chances of qualifying for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.
