Oluehi, Nnadozie, Balogun: Nigeria's goalkeepers at the FIFA Women's World Cup
Imhonlamhen EronmhonseleKekọrịta
- With the upcoming FIFA Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand just around the corner, Nigeria's Super Falcons are gearing up to showcase three talented goalkeepers on the global stage.
- Let's take a closer look at the shot-stoppers who will represent the former African champions and vie for glory in the prestigious tournament.
Tochukwu Oluehi
Veteran goalkeeper, Tochukwu Oluehi brings a wealth of experience to the Nigerian squad.
Having entered the professional arena in 2006 with Bayelsa Queens, Oluehi has since traveled the world, honing her skills in various leagues.
Her international exposure includes three FIFA Women's World Cups and Summer Olympic Games, making her a formidable force between the posts.
Notably, her standout performance in the African Women's Championship in 2018, where she made crucial saves during Nigeria's triumphant campaign, cemented her reputation as a top-class goalkeeper.
At 36 years old, Oluehi's move to Turkey's Hakkarigücü Spor in the Super League last year demonstrated her enduring talent and convinced the national team selectors that she still possesses the skills to excel at the highest level.
Chiamaka Nnadozie
Chiamaka Nnadozie, the Super Falcons' number-one goalie, has emerged as a rising star in Nigerian football.
Her contributions to Rivers Angels from 2016 to 2018 caught the attention of the national team selectors, leading to her inclusion in the squad that secured Nigeria's 11th Africa Women Cup of Nations in 2018.
However, it was during the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup in France that Nnadozie truly made her mark.
As the youngest goalkeeper to keep a clean sheet in the tournament's history, she displayed remarkable skill and bravery.
Nnadozie's subsequent move to Paris FC in France has solidified her status as one of Africa's premier female goalkeepers, with a string of outstanding performances and impressive clean sheets under her belt.
Yewande Balogun
Yewande Balogun, the surprise inclusion, has experienced a remarkable journey to international football.
After believing her dream of playing at the highest level was out of reach, fate intervened when Covid-19 disrupted Nigeria's squad. A phone call from coach Randy Waldrum offered her the opportunity of a lifetime.
Balogun, who had pursued other endeavors after her university career, made her international debut earlier this year, showcasing her talent and determination.
While facing stiff competition from Chiamaka Nnadozie for the number one spot, Balogun's limited appearances for AS Saint-Étienne in the French Division 2 Féminine present her with a challenging task.
