Paris Saint-Germain Féminine have parted ways with their head coach, Fabrice Abriel, just days after a painful Coupe de France final loss to city rivals Paris FC — a match that saw Nigerian international, Chiamaka Nnadozie, emerge as the undisputed hero for her side with a stunning penalty shootout display.
The final, held on Saturday, ended in heartbreak for PSG and glory for Paris FC, as Nnadozie saved two crucial spot-kicks to secure a historic title for her club — their first Coupe de France triumph in 19 years. Her commanding presence between the sticks not only denied PSG silverware but also led to swift consequences for Abriel, who was shown the exit door by the club’s hierarchy on Monday.
The loss capped a frustrating debut season for the former coach, who took charge of PSG Women earlier in the year. Under his tenure, the club stumbled early in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, failing to advance past the qualifying stages. Reports of internal unrest and a strained relationship between Abriel and some of the team’s top players further compounded the disappointing campaign.
For Chiamaka Nnadozie, however, the victory was a fitting reward for an outstanding season. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Super Falcons goalkeeper expressed her gratitude and joy following the triumph. “The journey was tough but the trophy was worth it. A dream come true,” she wrote. “Thanks to everyone who supported. I give God the glory.”
The 23-year-old shot-stopper is rumoured to be on the move at the end of the season, with several top European clubs reportedly monitoring her situation closely. Her performance in the final has only added to the growing interest in her services.
Meanwhile, the French women’s top-tier league is entering its decisive phase as the championship play-offs kick off this weekend. The top four teams on the log will battle in a knockout format to determine the league winner. Ironically, Paris FC and PSG will meet again in the semi-finals, setting up a high-stakes rematch just days after their dramatic cup clash.
With Abriel’s dismissal, PSG now face the added challenge of entering the league play-offs without a confirmed head coach. It remains uncertain who will take charge of the team in Sunday’s crucial tie, where the winner is expected to meet perennial powerhouse Olympique Lyonnais in the final.
As the dust settles on the Coupe de France, all eyes will now be on Paris FC’s resurgent squad — and Nnadozie in particular — as they seek to compound PSG’s woes and write a new chapter in their club’s history.
