Augustine Eguavoen drops Chiamaka Nnadozie bombshell: Super Falcons goalkeeper can play centre-back

Super Falcons caretaker coach Augustine Eguavoen has revealed that goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie could also feature at centre-back, highlighting the versatility he believes gives Nigeria an advantage as they pursue qualification for the 2028 Olympic Games.

The Brighton & Hove Albion shot-stopper kept a clean sheet as Nigeria defeated Comoros 2-0 in the first leg of their second-round Olympic qualifying tie in Ikenne-Remo on Friday.

However, it was Eguavoen’s unexpected assessment of Nnadozie’s outfield ability that emerged as one of the major talking points after the match, with the coach insisting that several players in his squad can operate in multiple positions.

The revelation comes as Nigeria adjust to defensive personnel changes following Oluwatosin Demehin’s absence and Osinachi Ohale’s retirement from international football.

Eguavoen reveals Nnadozie’s hidden ability

Asked whether Christy Ucheibe could continue playing at centre-back despite her usual role in midfield, Eguavoen pointed to the depth of versatility within his squad before revealing that Nnadozie could also fill the defensive position.

“It’s very possible because we are blessed. My philosophy is that for a player to be able to play for us, because it’s not a one-woman team, you must be able to play more than one position, which is an added advantage,” Eguavoen said at the post-match press conference.

He explained that Nigeria had discussed using Ucheibe in central defence as they sought solutions to their defensive challenges.

“Unfortunately, Demehin is not here. Osinachi has retired, despite the fact that I tried to convince her, but she had already made up her mind, so we have to respect that.

“Ucheibe dropping into the position, we also talked about it. She has all the qualities to play more than one position.”

The coach then delivered his assessment of Nnadozie’s potential to operate away from her familiar position between the posts.

“In fact, the entire team can play more than one position. That’s the advantage we have. So, it’s a blessing for Nigeria.

“She (Nnadozie) can play centre back. If you see what she does with the ball during training, she can.”

From striker to goalkeeper

Nnadozie’s background offers some context to the coach’s comments, as the Nigerian international began her football journey as a striker before switching to goalkeeping.

She has since established herself as an important figure for the Super Falcons, with her performances between the posts helping Nigeria maintain their defensive solidity.

Her ability on the ball during training has apparently convinced Eguavoen that she could offer another option if the team required an unconventional solution.

However, the coach’s remarks do not indicate that Nnadozie is set to abandon her goalkeeping duties. Rather, they underline his belief that adaptability across the squad could prove valuable during the Olympic qualifying campaign.

Super Falcons take control of Olympic qualifier

Nigeria backed up Eguavoen’s tactical flexibility with a convincing second-half performance against Comoros, taking an important step towards the next round of qualifying.

After a goalless opening 45 minutes, Michelle Alozie broke the deadlock three minutes into the second half with a close-range finish.

Uchenna Kanu doubled Nigeria’s advantage on the hour mark, heading home to give the Super Falcons a two-goal cushion ahead of the return leg.

Nnadozie also contributed to the victory by keeping Comoros scoreless, ensuring Nigeria carried a clean sheet into the next meeting.

With Demehin unavailable and Ohale having retired from international duty, Ucheibe’s ability to operate in central defence could offer Eguavoen another option as he manages the squad’s defensive resources.

The 2-0 victory gives Nigeria a strong platform to build on, while Eguavoen’s comments suggest that versatility will remain an important part of his approach as the Super Falcons continue their bid to return to the Olympic Games.