Super Falcons shot-stopper Chiamaka Nnadozie made an instant impact on her debut for Brighton & Hove Albion, delivering a commanding performance in their goalless draw against Aston Villa in Sunday’s opening fixture of the 2025/26 Women’s Super League season.
The 24-year-old, who signed for Brighton during the summer after leaving Paris FC, wasted no time in showcasing her quality. Facing constant pressure from the visitors, Nnadozie produced four crucial saves and maintained composure throughout the encounter, ensuring her side secured a point. Her efforts were rewarded as she was named Player of the Match in her very first appearance in England’s top flight.
Nnadozie also registered 46 touches across the 90 minutes, reflecting her influence not only as a shot-stopper but also as a key outlet in Brighton’s build-up play. Despite the lack of goals, the contest proved tightly balanced, with both sides struggling to carve out clear opportunities.
Head coach Dario Vidosic praised his side’s discipline in transition:
“We knew there would probably be that moment for Villa in transition. I thought we dealt with it very well. We know how dangerous they are. They got two of the fastest players standing up top, ready to hit you in behind. But I thought we dealt with their transitions really well. I was proud of the second-half performance. I think both teams were trying to find their feet in that first half, calm the game down. And then once we did, then we looked quite good in good patches in that second half.”
As Brighton prepares to build momentum from the stalemate, the reigning CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year is expected to play a central role in helping the Seagulls pursue their ambitions this season.
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