Zainab Kazeem: ICMC best goalkeeper out to emulate Chiamaka Nnadozie

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

After a rewarding campaign at the maiden Ifeanyi Chiejine Memorial Cup with the goalkeeper of the tournament prize, Prince Kazeem Eletu Queens goalkeeper, Zainab Kazeem is looking forward to a breakthrough career.

A 2-0 win over fellow NWFL Championship side, Imo Strikers ensured Jaiyeola Damilare’s team secure the title of the 2022 Ifeanyi Chiejine Memorial Cup and the young goalkeeper revealed that Super Falcons shotstopper Chiamaka Nnadozie is her role model and hopes to follow in her footsteps.

“I look up to so many goalkeepers in the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL). My main role model is Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie. I like and watch her a lot. Also aim to follow her footsteps.” Zainab told Nigeriafootball.ng.

“I feel very happy. It was what I was actually expecting throughout the year. I believe my hard work is already paying off. Since this is the last tournament for the year, I worked towards winning the best goalkeeper award which I won and I appreciate God for what He has done.

“I also appreciate my coach. This award will add to my career because I will keep on working hard to get more and reach the top. Hard work pays. In the next five years, I pray and believe that I will be in Europe by the grace of God.”

Kazeem shone in goal as Prince Kazeem Eletu Queens won four of its five games en route to tournament success and the team will shift its focus on the 2023 NWFL Championship in a bid to gain promotion to NWFL Premiership.

The Lagos-based side gained promotion to NWFL Championship from third-tier NWFL Nationwide last season alongside Imo Strikers, Lakeside Queens, and Delta Babes.