Brighton goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has opened up on how an unexpected twist turned her into a goalkeeper, revealing that she never planned to play the position while growing up.
In an interview published by The FA on Wednesday ahead of the Women’s FA Cup final, the Nigerian international said she began her football career as an outfield player before stepping into goal during a local match because of an injury crisis.
“I was not a goalkeeper from the beginning,” Nnadozie said. “I was an outfield player. One day our goalkeeper got injured and there was no replacement, so I said I could help.”
The Super Falcons star explained that although she had never played competitively in goal, she occasionally kept goal while playing street football with relatives in her village.
“The coach asked if I had been in goal before and I told him yes — playing with my brothers and cousins in the village. Whenever the tackles became rough, I would go into goal,” she recalled.
According to the 24-year-old, that moment proved decisive as she quickly progressed through the ranks and eventually earned a place in Nigeria’s under-17 women’s national team.
“Before I knew it, I was already in the under-17 national team and after that there was no going back,” she said.
Nnadozie has played a crucial role in Brighton’s run to the Women’s FA Cup final and admitted she is relishing the prospect of playing at Wembley Stadium.
“I’m very excited. We’ve worked so hard this season and we deserve to be here,” she said.
The former Paris FC goalkeeper also spoke about Brighton’s dramatic semi-final victory after recovering from a two-goal deficit.
She described the atmosphere in the dressing room at half-time as one filled with belief and determination despite the difficult situation.
“Everyone kept encouraging each other and we refused to give up,” she said. “The manager told us to stay calm, trust ourselves and keep fighting.”
Nnadozie added that she was convinced Brighton would win the game before their dramatic late winner secured qualification for the final.
The Nigerian shot-stopper also praised the club’s supporters for their commitment throughout the campaign.
“They’ve supported us from the beginning of the season,” she said. “Whenever we travel, they are always there cheering for us. We appreciate them so much.”
Nnadozie further revealed that although most members of her family supported , she admired because of their successful women’s team.
She disclosed that she once had the opportunity to join the French club but ultimately chose Brighton, describing it as a decision she does not regret.
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