of the 2023 CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of The Year award Chiamaka Nnadozie revealed her father didn’t support her football career when she started, reports.
Nnadozie said this on the podium after receiving her award at the ceremony in Marrakech, Morocco.
The Paris FC goalkeeper won ahead of Morocco’s Khadija Er-Rmichi and South Africa’s Andile Dlamini.
”I just want to use this great opportunity to say a very great thank you to the organisers and also for remembering the female goalkeeper this year,” she said.
“I also want to say a very big thank you to the Nigerian football president for everything he has done in the Nigerian league and female football. I am a product of Nigerian female football.
“Also, thank you to my club, Paris FC for all the encouragement and thanks to everyone who voted for me and who nominated me.
“And to all the young girls who grew up in Africa, dreaming of becoming footballers one day—believe me, dreams do come true.
“My dad never wanted me to play, but I am sure he is going to see this tonight and he is going to be happy.
“Keep dreaming; keep working hard. Thank you.”
Nnadozie, however, missed out on the CAF Women’s XI to South Africa’s Andile Dlamini.
The 23-year-old was instrumental to Nigeria’s spirited run at the last FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, helping the Super Falcons reach the round of 16 before they were knocked out by England on penalties.
At club level, she was also prolific between the sticks for Paris FC, guiding them to the group stages of the Women’s Champions League with her penalty shootout saves.
She began her career at Rivers Angels in Nigeria before joining the French club in 2020.
