Chiamaka Nnadozie seized her moment to shine and did so on the biggest stage at the World Cup.
The 18 year-old showed composure and alertness between the sticks as she shut out a team that had scored 30 goals through the qualifying stages for the competition.Â
Nigeria defeated South Korea 2-0 and it was Nnadozie’s stage, but while she may be the star of the moment, it appears the Super Falcons team in France is not without some incredible goalkeepers.
Indeed, Nnadozie may have taken first choice spot from 32 year-old Tochukwu Oluehi, but she might have to constantly look behind her as third choice Alaba Jonathan is another breathe of fresh air.
Alaba, like the other goalkeepers in the team is based in Nigeria with Bayelsa Queens; a local team.
She won the league title in 2018 and earned her place in France. She is yet to get minutes in the competition but Alaba keeps showing glimpses of why Thomas Dennerby entrusted her with a spot in the team.
In a video shared on FIFA TV dedicated to the 2019 Women’s World Cup, Alaba showed great reflex and reaction time, saving three low close range shots in three seconds.
She made her debut at the #FIFAWWC at just 18 in goal last time out – and kept a clean sheet 🧤
Keep doing your thing, Chiamaka Nnadozie 🇳🇬@FIFAWWC_NGA | #FIFAWWC pic.twitter.com/TrCFuWDbdn
— FIFA Women’s World Cup (@FIFAWWC) June 17, 2019
Later today, it is expected that Nnadozie will return between the sticks for the Super Falcons against Les Bleues in their final group game in Rennes.