Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has revealed why she chose to publicly apologise to Nigerian fans after the team’s opening defeat to Malawi, insisting the criticism that followed has not affected her mentally ahead of Saturday’s crucial Women’s Africa Cup of Nations clash against Zambia.
The Paris FC shot stopper came under intense scrutiny after Nigeria’s disappointing start to the tournament but said she felt it was important to address supporters directly rather than remain silent.
Speaking during Friday’s pre-match press conference, Nnadozie said her apology was motivated by responsibility rather than pressure.
“I just felt like it was necessary to let the fans know that what happened was not intentional,” she said.
“This is football. Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. But that doesn’t make us a bad team or that doesn’t make me a bad player.”
READMORE: ‘We know what we’re doing’ – Madugu dismisses criticism before Zambia showdown
The 25-year-old thanked Nigerians who have continued to support the team despite the setback, adding that the Super Falcons have already shifted their focus to putting things right against Zambia.
“We’ve been learning a lot since the last game and hopefully in the next game we’ll try our best to make sure we get things right.”
Despite facing criticism on social media, Nnadozie said she has remained composed, explaining that difficult moments are part of a footballer’s career.
Rather than avoiding public opinion, she believes it can sometimes serve as motivation.
“Some people came to me and said, ‘Stop reading comments, stop going online.’ I told them those things will even help me more. They will help me come back to myself.”
The experienced goalkeeper also dismissed suggestions that the criticism had shaken her confidence, stressing that years of professional football have prepared her to deal with setbacks.
“I’m doing very well. I’m okay. I’m mentally strong.”
“The comments are not getting to me at all.”
Nnadozie acknowledged the unique scrutiny goalkeepers face, noting that mistakes in her position are often magnified more than errors made elsewhere on the pitch.
“Being a goalkeeper is very, very difficult because when a striker makes a mistake, nobody sees it. When a midfielder or defender makes a mistake, nobody sees it. But when a goalkeeper makes a mistake, it goes to the net.”
READMORE: NWFL Nationwide draw: Full groups, format and road to promotion confirmed
She also reflected on how quickly public perception can change in football.
“If you do 100 good things and one wrong thing, they will use the one wrong thing to cover up the 100 you’ve done.”
Drawing inspiration from Argentina’s recovery after losing their opening match at the 2022 FIFA World Cup before lifting the trophy, Nnadozie insisted Nigeria’s campaign is far from over.
“We’ve all learned from our mistakes,” she said. “Moving forward, we’re focusing on the next game.”
Nigeria face Zambia knowing victory is vital to revive their WAFCON campaign and keep alive their hopes of qualifying for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW!
