Highly-rated Nigerian talent Chiamaka Okwuchuwku made a dream start to life in the National Women’s Super League but experienced defeat, scoring 108 seconds into her debut as San Diego Wave lost to Orlando Pride 2-1 in their league clash on Saturday.
After a goalless first half, Orlando Pride broke the deadlock five minutes into the second half as experienced midfielder, Haley Hanson scored to give the home side the lead. In a bid to level the scoreline, San Diego Wave made three changes, introducing Chiamaka Okwuchukwu alongside Kimmi Ascanio and Melanie Barcenas.
Few seconds after the changes, Chiamaka Okwuchuwku made an instant impact, receiving a well-timed cross from Kenza Dali before heading the ball into the back of the net to level the scoreline.
With a draw looking likely, legendary forward Marta got her chance to seal the win for Orlando Pride as the home side were awarded a penalty after a VAR review. Despite the high-pressure situation, the Brazilian veteran confidently scored a panenka from the spot, winning the game for her team.
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The hard-fought victory means Orlando Pride remain on top of the table, having maintained their 100% start to the season, winning all three games while conceding only one goal. Meanwhile, San Diego Wave sit fifth with four points.
Chiamaka Okwuchuwku’s strike in less than two minutes marked the second-fastest goal by a player in their regular-season debut in NWSL history, behind only Ebony Salmon’s 55-second record set in 2021.
After joining San Diego Wave from Rivers Angels in 2024, the CAF Women’s Young Player of the Year nominee’s career is experiencing a rapid ascent. The highly-rated talent will thus be aiming to establish herself in the team’s starting lineup during the season.
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