Chiamaka Nnadozie: Super Falcons and Paris FC Goalkeeper Says She Used to Play as a Striker

Chiamaka Nnadozie: Super Falcons and Paris FC Goalkeeper Says She Used to Play as a Striker

Robert Abong'o
April 7, 2024 at 8:18 AM
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  • Chiamaka Nnadozie used to play as a striker before becoming a goalkeeper
  • The Paris and Super Falcons star has gained recognition for her performances
  • She saved three penalties in the shootout vs Cameroon at the African Games

Paris FC star, Chiamaka Nnadozie, has shared a surprising aspect of her journey to becoming a top-class goalkeeper.

The Super Falcons goalkeeper disclosed that she used to play as a striker before switching positions.

Nnadozie has gained recognition as one of the best shot-stoppers in women's football, particularly after her stellar performances for club and country.

Nigeria goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, saiys she used to play a striker before. Photo: Matt Robert.
Nigeria goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, in action against England in the FIFA Women's World Cup. Photo: Matt Robert.
Source: Getty Images

“I used to play as a striker before. It was in 2012 that I switched to goalkeeper,” she said during an interview with BBC.

The 23-year-old rose to prominence following her exceptional displays at various international tournaments, including the 2018 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, where she was named the "Dare to Shine" Player of the Match against Haiti.

Her talent and potential were further highlighted during the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where she made history as the youngest goalkeeper to keep a clean sheet in a 2–0 victory over Korea.

Nnadozie's journey to success continued as she played a pivotal role in securing a Gold medal for the Falconets at the African Games in Morocco, notably saving three crucial penalties in the shootout against Cameroon.

Her recent achievements include inspiring Paris FC to their first victory at the UEFA Women's Champions League group stage, where she made a crucial penalty save in a 2-1 win over Real Madrid, as reported by Punch.

Reflecting on her remarkable journey, she expressed gratitude towards her mother for her unwavering support and encouragement throughout her career. She emphasized the importance of her mother's role, especially during challenging times, acknowledging her as her "saviour".

Chiamaka Nnadozie wins African Women Goalkeeper of the Year

Sports Brief reported that Chiamaka Nnadozie won the 2023 CAF African Women Goalkeeper of the Year at the ongoing CAF Award in Morocco.

She edged other impressive nominees to the prestigious prize during the award ceremony in Marrakech on Monday night, December 11, 2023.

Morocco's Imane Abdelahad and Khadija Er-Rmichi, as well as Andile Dlamini and Kaylin Swart of South Africa, were all among the five nominees, but it was the Nigerian that scooped the award.

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Robert Abong'o
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