Nigeria Super Falcons and Paris FC goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, has won the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year at the 2024 Confederation of African Football (CAF) Awards.
This marks the 24-year-old’s second consecutive win, reaffirming her status as Africa’s premier female goalkeeper.
Career Highlights and Achievements
Numerous accomplishments distinguish Nnadozie’s career:
International Competitions: She represented Nigeria in the 2018 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup and the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where she became the youngest goalkeeper to keep a clean sheet.
2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup: Nnadozie made crucial saves, including a penalty stop against Canada, earning the Player of the Match award.
Club Success: Playing for Paris FC, she has been instrumental in the team’s performances in the Feminine Division 1, making 15 appearances in the 2020/2021 season.
Historic Recognition: She became the first African to win the Best Goalkeeper award in France, highlighting her exceptional talent on an international scale.
2024 CAF Awards
At the 2024 CAF Awards, Nnadozie was shortlisted alongside Khadija Er-Rmichi of Morocco’s AS FAR and Andile Dlamini of South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns. Her outstanding performances throughout the year secured her the top honor.
Impact on Nigerian Football
Nnadozie’s achievements have significantly contributed to the prominence of Nigerian women’s football. Her leadership and skill were pivotal in Nigeria’s qualification for the Women’s Olympic Football Tournament after a 16-year absence.
Recognition and Future Prospects
This consecutive accolade not only cements Nnadozie’s status as Africa’s leading female goalkeeper but also underscores her potential for future successes on both continental and global stages.