We will make Nigerians proud – Nnadozie

Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has urged Nigerians to remain supportive of the team after their difficult start to the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, insisting the 10-time champions will make the country proud, PidomNigeria Sports Extra reports.

Nnadozie came under criticism after conceding three goals in Nigeria’s shock 3-2 defeat to debutants Malawi in their opening Group C game last Tuesday, but she responded with a clean sheet in Saturday’s crucial 1-0 victory over Zambia.

The victory, secured despite Nigeria playing with 10 players from the 40th minute following Tosin Demehin’s straight red card, revived the Falcons’ hopes of reaching the quarter-finals and defending their continental title.

Speaking to Ademola TV in Pidgin, Nnadozie appealed to the fans to stay behind the team as they fight to progress from a difficult group.

“Naija, I just wan say make una calm down. I no know why una dey worry. Na we oh, 10 times champions.

We go make una proud. We be una sisters, when una sisters make mistake, una go beat am? Make una dey cheer us, make una support us,” the goalkeeper said.

“I just want to assure the fans that we are capable of fighting this battle and that is why we are 10 times champions. We will make Nigerians proud and we are your sisters. You just have to bear with us through thick and thin and give us all the support.”

The Falcons had been under pressure to respond after their defeat to Malawi, who stunned Nigeria through goals from Temwa Chawinga and Tabitha Chawinga before completing the 3-2 victory.

The result left Nigeria with three points from two matches, level with Zambia but behind the Copper Queens on goal difference. Malawi lead Group C with six points after also defeating Egypt, while the Egyptians remain without a point.

The Falcons now face Egypt on Wednesday knowing that a convincing victory is essential to their hopes of reaching the knockout stage. They will also need the result of the simultaneous meeting between Malawi and Zambia to go in their favour.

Nnadozie, who was crestfallen after the opening day defeat is a three-time CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of The Year and could be on course for another crowning this year when the CAF Awards returns to Nigeria.