Nigeria’s Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie delivered an outstanding performance as Brighton & Hove Albion Women secured a historic place in the Women’s FA Cup Final for the first time. Their journey to Wembley capped off with a thrilling 3-2 semi-final victory over Liverpool Women, where Brighton staged an incredible comeback from two goals down.
In a highly charged match at St Helens, Brighton turned the tide after, initially, Liverpool surged ahead with goals from Denis O’Sullivan in the 11th minute and Beata Olsson in the 22nd minute. Just when it seemed all hope was lost, Brighton rallied, with Manuela Vanegas finding the net shortly before halftime to reignite the team’s spirits.
The momentum carried into the second half as Madison Haley equalized in the 54th minute, leveling the score at 2-2. As the match approached extra time, substitute Nadine Nordham emerged as the hero, scoring the decisive goal in stoppage time, just six minutes after stepping onto the pitch.
Key Contributions Amidst the Drama
While the victory highlighted Brighton’s offensive capabilities, Nnadozie’s contributions were equally critical. The Nigerian goalkeeper made several key saves during the closing moments, denying Liverpool substitutions Aurelie Chirag and Cornelia Capocs, which solidified the team’s lead and underscored her vital role in the comeback.
Nnadozie’s remarkable debut season in England, following her transfer from Paris FC Feminin in 2025, has positioned her among the top players in the Women’s Super League. With a league-leading save percentage of 75%, she has prevented 3.6 goals—ranking best in the league—while also making 40 saves from inside the box and recording six clean sheets, the second-best in the division.
Recognition from Peers and Managers
Her stellar performance extended beyond the semi-finals; just days earlier, she showcased her skills in a 1-1 draw against Arsenal Women at Broadfield Stadium. Although Frieda Mahnum equalized Fuka Tsunoda’s opener, it was Nnadozie’s remarkable saves, particularly a fingertip stop against Caitlin Ford, that caught the attention of Arsenal’s manager, Lenny Sleggers.
Post-match, Sleggers acknowledged her influence, commenting on Brighton’s confident approach and how Nnadozie effectively defended their goal. He noted, “There were chances in behind, but Nnadozie defended the space well,” emphasizing the necessity for precision in execution when facing such formidable opposition.
A Season of Performance and Growth
Nnadozie’s performances have not only propelled Brighton’s success but have also elevated her profile on the international stage. She has been nominated for the WSL Save of the Season and has played an instrumental role in Brighton’s longest unbeaten run in league history since the 2011-12 season. Her standout performance against Manchester City notably delayed their title celebrations, further establishing her impact in the league.
Awaiting Wembley: A Historic Opportunity
For Brighton, reaching the FA Cup Final represents more than just a game; it signifies a historic breakthrough and the club’s ascent in English women’s football. For Nnadozie, this moment is a pivotal milestone in her burgeoning career as she prepares to step onto the grand stage at Wembley.
