Chiamaka Nnadozie earns first PFA nomination after bright start at Brighton

GistReel

Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has been shortlisted for the PFA Women’s Super League Fans’ Player of the Month award for September.

It is her first individual nomination since joining Brighton & Hove Albion this summer.

The Nigerian international has made a seamless transition to English football, quickly establishing herself as one of the league’s standout performers with her composure, reflexes, and leadership between the sticks.

Bright start in the WSL

In just five league appearances, Nnadozie has recorded two clean sheets and several crucial saves, helping Brighton secure seven points from a possible fifteen.

Her debut against Aston Villa, which ended in a goalless draw, earned her the Player of the Match award, a performance that immediately underlined her pedigree and justified Brighton’s decision to sign her from Paris FC.

This recognition continues a stellar year for the 24-year-old, who won Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament at the 2024 WAFCON and became the first African woman nominated for the Women’s Yashin Trophy at the Ballon d’Or.

Struggles behind the success

Despite her success, Nnadozie admitted that adapting to life in England has been emotionally challenging.

“It has not really been easy because people just see you come out on the field to play, they don’t know the struggles behind,” she revealed in an episode of Nike and VERSUS’ Nothing Off the Table series.

“Since I moved to Brighton, every day I cry because I feel lonely. I miss my family, my teammates, and coaches. They always try to check up on me to make sure I’m okay.”

Still, she credits her club for helping her adjust: “The most important thing is having people who really care about you. The unity I’ve seen here has helped me a lot.”

Rising star on the global stage

Currently ranked fourth-best female goalkeeper in the world, Nnadozie’s rise shows no signs of slowing down.

A PFA award would not only mark her first major accolade in England but also endear her as one of Africa’s most influential football exports.