Chiamaka Okwuchukwu has written her name in NWSL folklore following her debut goal as San Diego Wave FC fell to a home defeat against defending Champions Orlando Pride at the Inter&Co Stadium, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Her 62nd-minute goal after coming off the bench to level the score for her side wasn't enough to prevent the defeat but it sure does announce her arrival to the National Women's Soccer League following her move from Nigerian side, Rivers Angels.
Her goal not only secured her place in San Diego Wave history but also positioned her as the second player in 2025 to score in their inaugural appearance for the club, following Gia Corley's earlier achievement. Furthermore, Okwuchukwu's goal was remarkably swift, marking the fastest NWSL debut goal since June 2021, when Ebony Salmon achieved a similar feat for Louisville.
The significance of Okwuchukwu's strike extended beyond her milestone, as it also broke Orlando's previously unblemished defensive record. Notably, this goal was the first conceded by Orlando Pride in the entire 2025 NWSL season. Her introduction into the game not only brought about a goal for San Diego but also ended Orlando's streak of clean sheets.
Up next for Okwuchukwu and Diego Wave is the trip to Kansas City Current after the break.
By Oluwadamilola Olaleye