Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie produced another standout performance between the posts, but her heroics couldn’t stop Brighton & Hove Albion Women from falling 1–0 to Arsenal in the Women’s Super League (WSL) at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.
The narrow defeat marked Brighton’s third loss in seven days, following earlier setbacks against Tottenham Hotspur in the WSL and West Ham United in the League Cup, capping a difficult week for Dario Vidosic’s side.
Arsenal End Winless Streak with Narrow Victory
The Gunners finally snapped their four-match winless run across all competitions, though they labored for long periods despite controlling early possession.
Arsenal took the lead in the 15th minute when Olivia Smith’s low strike deflected off Marisa Olislagers, wrong-footing Nnadozie.
Brighton, however, responded admirably, forcing Arsenal goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar into two fine saves from Kiko Seike before halftime. After the break, Carla Camacho’s header came close to equalizing, while Maelys Mpome had to clear off the line to keep Arsenal’s lead intact.
Nnadozie Stands Tall Amid Defensive Frailties
Despite conceding the only goal of the game, Nnadozie, the WSL’s leading save-maker heading into the weekend, was once again a standout performer.
The Nigerian international made two spectacular saves to deny Caitlin Foord from close range and displayed sharp reflexes throughout the contest. Her aggressive positioning, however, caused some anxious moments as Arsenal looked to exploit spaces behind the defence.
Brighton’s woes continued, as they have now lost eight consecutive away games against Arsenal, conceding 27 goals in those fixtures. The Seagulls also missed Michelle Agyemang and Rose Kafaji, both on loan from Arsenal and ineligible to face their parent club.
Arsenal pushed for a second late on, with Stina Blackstenius hitting the crossbar and narrowly missing another chance, but the hosts held firm for a much-needed win that lifted them to fifth place in the WSL, five points behind leaders Chelsea.
What’s Next
Arsenal will travel to Benfica on Thursday, 16 October, for their UEFA Women’s Champions League clash before resuming WSL duties away to Leicester City on Sunday, 2 November.
Brighton, meanwhile, will face Southampton in the Women’s League Cup Group C on Sunday, 19 October, before hosting Manchester United in the WSL on Sunday, 2 November.
