August 07, (THEWILL) — Two Nigerian football stars have earned recognition at the highest level of the sport after receiving nominations for the 2025 Ballon d’Or awards announced on Thursday. Chiamaka Nnadozie, the Super Falcons goalkeeper, has been shortlisted for the Women’s Yachine Trophy as the only African player on the list, whilst head coach Justine Madugu has secured a nomination for the Women’s Team Coach of the Year Trophy. The announcements by France Football mark a significant moment for football in the country and on the continent, particularly following Nigeria’s triumphant campaign at the Women’s African Cup of Nations.
Nnadozie was among a five-woman shortlist which also included Ann-Katrin Berger of Germany and Gotham FC, Cata Coll of FC Barcelona, Hannah Hampton of England and Chelsea, and Daphne Van Domselaar of Arsenal. The Brighton and Hove Albion goalkeeper’s nomination comes after an exceptional season in which she registered 17 clean sheets across various competitions for Paris FC before her summer move to England. Her performances during the Women’s African Cup of Nations drew particular attention from international observers, cementing her reputation amongst the world’s elite goalkeepers.
Madugu’s nomination recognises his tactical acumen in leading the Super Falcons to continental success. The coach’s strategic approach throughout the African Cup of Nations campaign demonstrated his ability to compete at the highest level of international football. His nomination for the Women’s Team Coach of the Year Trophy places him amongst the most respected tacticians in women’s football globally.
The dual nominations represent a breakthrough for Nigerian football on the international stage. This marks the first time that the Yachine Trophy has been awarded in a women’s category, making Nnadozie’s inclusion particularly historic. The recognition comes during a period of growth for women’s football in Nigeria, with increased focus from the 10th continental title of the Super Falcons helping to grow interest in the sport across the country.
The awards ceremony will take place in September, where both Nigerians will compete against top-tier international competition. Their nominations reflect the growing strength of African football and Nigeria’s position within the global game. The achievements of both Nnadozie and Madugu serve to inspire the next generation of Nigerian footballers whilst demonstrating the country’s capacity to produce world-class talent.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
