Chiamaka Okwuchukwu scores 1st goal for San Diego Wave in 2-1 loss to Orlando Pride

19-year-old Nigerian forward Chiamaka Okwuchukwu marked her San Diego Wave FC debut with a memorable first professional goal.

Okwuchukwu was on target as San Diego Wave ultimately fell 2-1 to the Orlando Pride at Inter&Co Stadium in a National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) match.

The game saw Orlando Pride take the lead early in the second half when Haley McCutcheon scored in the 50th minute.

San Diego responded with a triple substitution in the 60th minute, bringing on Okwuchukwu to inject energy into their attack.

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The move paid off almost immediately as in the 62nd minute, Okwuchukwu equalized the score at 1-1.

It was a brilliant header for the Super Falcons star who is rated as one of the rising stars in the NWSL.

A brief VAR review followed to check for a potential foul, but the goal was upheld, marking a dream debut for the 19-year-old Nigerian.

The Wave's momentum, however, was halted in the 76th minute when Orlando's legendary forward Marta stepped up to score the game-winner from the penalty spot.

For Okwuchukwu, her first goal offers a glimpse of a bright future in the NWSL as the Wave sit fifth in the standings with 4 points after three matches.