Nigeria’s Super Falcons are once again making headlines on the global stage, with two of their brightest figures—goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and head coach Justine Madugu—earning nominations for the prestigious 2025 Ballon d’Or awards, announced by France Football on August 7, 2025.
Nnadozie has been shortlisted for the Women’s Yachine Trophy, awarded to the world’s best female goalkeeper, while Madugu is in contention for the Women’s Johan Cruyff Trophy, which honors the top coach in women’s football.
Their recognition follows a historic campaign at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), where Nigeria secured a record-extending 10th continental title, reaffirming their dominance in African women’s football.
Chiamaka Nnadozie: A Goalkeeper at the Pinnacle
The 24-year-old Brighton & Hove Albion shot-stopper has delivered a standout year at both club and international levels. At WAFCON, Nnadozie was a commanding presence, recording four clean sheets in six matches and earning the title of Goalkeeper of the Tournament.
Her heroics were crucial in Nigeria’s dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over hosts Morocco in the final on July 26, 2025, in Rabat—an instant classic.
Prior to her move to Brighton, Nnadozie made history with Paris FC, leading the club to win the 2025 Coupe de France Féminine—their first major title in nearly two decades—via a 5-4 penalty shootout victory over Paris Saint-Germain. She was also instrumental in Paris FC’s Champions League qualification, finishing the season with an impressive 17 clean sheets in 31 matches.
She is joined on the Yachine Trophy shortlist by global standouts including Ann-Katrin Berger (Gotham FC), Cata Coll (FC Barcelona), Hannah Hampton (Chelsea), and Daphne van Domselaar (Arsenal).
Justine Madugu: Making Coaching History
At 61, Justine Madugu is the first Nigerian coach ever nominated for a Ballon d’Or-linked award. His nomination for the Women’s Johan Cruyff Trophy recognizes his masterful leadership during Nigeria’s WAFCON triumph—dubbed “Mission X” by the Nigeria Football Federation.
Madugu guided the Super Falcons through a thrilling tournament, culminating in the final comeback against Morocco. Trailing 2-0 at halftime, the team rallied with goals from Esther Okoronkwo, Folashade Ijamilusi, and Jennifer Echegini to seal a sensational win.
He faces competition from elite coaches including Sonia Bompastor (Chelsea), Arthur Elias (Brazil), Renée Slegers (Arsenal), and Sarina Wiegman (England).
A New Era for Nigerian Women’s Football
The Super Falcons’ 2024 WAFCON win sparked nationwide celebrations. Team captain Rasheedat Ajibade, who was named Player of the Tournament, described the victory as “a dream come true” and a source of inspiration for young girls across the continent.
In recognition of their achievement, President Bola Tinubu awarded national honors and incentives:
Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON)
$100,000 for each player
$50,000 for technical staff
Three-bedroom homes for all team members
Looking Ahead: Ballon d’Or Ceremony in Paris
The 69th Ballon d’Or awards ceremony will take place on September 22, 2025, at the iconic Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, France. The nominations of Nnadozie and Madugu highlight Nigeria’s rising influence in global football and mark a milestone moment for African women in sports.
As the world watches, the Super Falcons continue to lead by example—on the field and beyond.
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