Nigeria keeper Chiamaka Nnadozie reflects on miraculous Brighton transfer

Brighton & Hove Albion women’s football team’s Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has reflected on her career with the English club.

The Super Falcons keeper signed for the Women’s Super League (WSL) outfit from Paris FC, a transfer she described as a miracle. The transfer capped off a successful year for Nnadozie who became the first African female keeper to earn the 2025 Ballon d’Or nomination.

The Nigerian also helped the Super Falcons to win the 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title in July.

Reflecting on her achievements for club and country, Nnadozie said her feat was beyond her career dreams.

“It is a miracle for me. It shows that all the hard work, dedication and everything I’ve been doing in the past, has been worth it,” Nnadozie told BBC Sport. “It has always been my dream to play in England. Moving to Brighton is a special one. From the first time they came knocking, I knew they were the one,” she said.

“I’m happy to be here. I told my family it was not going to be like it was in Paris. It will not be easy. The WSL is a very strong league.”

Nnadozie has impressed so far at Brighton after earning the club’s player of the match award after saving all four of Aston Villa’s shots on target in Sunday’s 0-0 draw. The Super Falcons trusted pair of hands hopes her success can inspire other African women footballers.

“It lets others know that everything is achievable and everything is possible. This nomination is not just for me, it is for Africa,” she explained.

“It is for every young girl dreaming to become whatever they want to be. They just have to believe in themselves.”

Nnadozie believes her nomination would open the door for more Africans to earn Ballon d’Or nominations.

The Nigerian cited Africa’s women’s football stars such as Orlando Pride’s Barbra Banda and Kansas City’s Temwa Chawinga as potential Ballon d’Or winners. “Trust me, there are so many good talents from Africa. It is just about giving them the time and opportunity,” added Nnadozie added.

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