Nnadozie nominated for Barclays WSL save of the season

Chiamaka Nnadozie earned a nomination for the prestigious Barclays Women’s Super League Save of the Season award after her exceptional reflex save against Liverpool Women F.C. earlier in the campaign. The Nigerian goalkeeper received the nomination for a stunning fingertip save during Brighton & Hove Albion Women F.C.’s 1-1 draw with Liverpool at St Helens Stadium in November 2025.

Brighton had initially fallen behind after an opener from Beata Olsson, and Liverpool seemed likely to double their advantage when Japan international Fuka Nagano unleashed a powerful long-range strike towards goal. However, Nnadozie exhibited a moment of brilliance, reacting instantly to stretch at full length and tip the effort onto the crossbar, preserving Brighton’s hopes before they eventually fought back to secure a point.

This remarkable save had already earned Nnadozie the WSL Save of the Month award for November, surpassing fellow nominees Sabrina D’Angelo, Faye Kirby, and Ayaka Yamashita. Now, the 25-year-old faces even stronger competition for the overall season award, which includes nominees Daphne van Domselaar of Arsenal Women F.C., Manchester City goalkeeper Ayaka Yamashita, Janina Leitzig of Leicester City Women F.C., as well as Elene Lete and Anneke Borbe.

Nnadozie’s debut season at Brighton has been outstanding. Since arriving from Paris FC Féminines in the summer of 2025, she quickly established herself as one of Brighton’s most influential players. The Nigerian international kept six clean sheets during her inaugural WSL campaign and is still in contention for the league’s Golden Glove award as the season nears its conclusion. Her signing has coincided with a significant improvement in Brighton’s performances, with the club climbing into the top half of the table after finishing ninth the previous season.

Nnadozie has delivered several key performances throughout the season, including an impressive clean sheet in a goalless draw against Aston Villa Women F.C. and another standout display during Brighton’s 1-1 draw against Arsenal Women, where she received praise for her commanding presence in the penalty area and effective organization of the defense. The defensive structure of Brighton has strengthened markedly since her arrival, with the club conceding fewer goals and enjoying a five-match unbeaten streak earlier in 2026, their longest unbeaten run in over a decade.

The Super Falcons star has reinforced her status as one of Africa’s premier goalkeepers, having previously gained recognition with Paris FC and the Nigerian national team, showcasing exceptional skills at major international tournaments like the FIFA Women’s World Cup and Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. Her consistent performances in England have broadened her appeal globally and amplified her status as one of the leading African players currently in European football. With Brighton now capable of competing strongly against elite teams like Arsenal and Manchester City Women F.C., Nnadozie’s impact on the field is becoming increasingly apparent, both statistically and tactically. Fans can vote for the Barclays Women’s Super League Save of the Season winner through the league’s official website.