Chiamaka Nnadozie has wasted no time endearing herself to Brighton & Hove Albion fans, as the Nigerian goalkeeper delivered a stunning debut performance that earned her the Player of the Match award.

The 23-year-old Super Falcons shot-stopper, who arrived from French side Paris FC during the summer, stood tall between the sticks in Brighton’s goalless draw against Aston Villa in the Women’s Super League on Sunday.

Her commanding presence and crucial saves didn’t go unnoticed. On Monday, Brighton announced her award via their official X handle, writing:
“First appearance, first @British_Airways Player of the Match award! Congrats, Chiamaka!”

Nnadozie topped the fans’ vote emphatically with 83 percent, leaving teammates Rachel McLaughlan (8%), Madison Haley (5%), and Jelena Čanković (4%) trailing behind.

Already celebrated as one of Africa’s finest goalkeepers — after being named Best Goalkeeper at the 2022 WAFCON, where she helped Nigeria secure their 10th continental title — Nnadozie has now made an instant statement in England’s top flight.

Brighton fans will no doubt be excited to see what more their new number one has in store for the season.