Ex-Super Falcons goalkeeper’s bold prediction: Chiamaka Nnadozie holds the key to Nigeria’s goalkeeping future

Former Super Falcons goalkeeper, Rachael Ayegba, has showered encomium on Paris FC goalie, Chiamaka Nnadozie, for her impressive performance so far at the Women’s World Cup, Soccernet.ng reports.

Randy Waldrum’s troops have established themselves as a threat to opponents at the ongoing women’s tournament after defeating Australia and drawing against Canada and the Republic of Ireland.

The former Nigerian goalkeeper, who represented the Super Falcons from 2001 to 2010 and was part of their 2007 Women’s World Cup squad, recently shared her insights on the Super Falcon’s skipper.

Speaking to BBC Sport Africa, Ayegba focused on the goalkeepers’ performances and expressed her admiration for Nnadozie.

“As a former goalkeeper, I always concentrate on what the keepers are doing. You can see how they are going to perform from the body language.”

Ayegba highlighted Nnadozie’s self-belief as a key factor in her success, expressing excitement about the young keeper’s potential.

She believes that if Nnadozie can maintain her form and fitness, Nigeria will have a reliable goalkeeper for the next decade.

“I’ve been watching Nigeria’s Chiamaka Nnadozie, who plays for Paris FC. She has this self-belief which I’m really excited about. If she stays fit then the country has a goalkeeper for the next 10 years.”

Ayegba’s observation underscores the growing recognition of women’s football in the country and the appreciation for Nnadozie’s outstanding abilities.

“Her penalty save against Canada was so important, as was the fact that we kept a clean sheet.”

The former goalkeeper expressed immense pride in the Super Falcons’ defensive performance and the contributions of Nnadozie.

The fact that people in Nigeria are already comparing her to male goalkeepers is a testament to her skill and impact on the team.

“I’m so proud of the team defensively and the goalkeeper. The fact that people in Nigeria were comparing her to the men’s goalkeepers is really interesting and good to see.”

Ayegba’s faith in Nnadozie and the Super Falcons’ defence bode well for their chances as they go ready to play England in the round of 16.