Nigeria’s Nnadozie, Madugu earn Ballon d’Or nominations after Super Falcons’ WAFCON triumph

Nigeria’s women’s football continues to gain international recognition as Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and head coach Justin Madugu have been nominated for top honours at the 2025 Ballon d’Or awards.

Nnadozie has been shortlisted for the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year, while Madugu is in the running for Women’s Coach of the Year—both categories introduced to spotlight exceptional figures in the women’s game.

Their nominations follow Nigeria’s historic 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title, won in Morocco after an unbeaten run.

Nnadozie, who captained the Falcons throughout the tournament, delivered a series of match-winning performances, including vital penalty saves and commanding leadership from the back.

Appointed in late 2023, Coach Justin Madugu has earned widespread praise for transforming the team’s style of play and leading Nigeria past heavyweights like hosts Morocco and defending champions South Africa.

While the Nigerian duo’s achievements have been celebrated, Spain’s Aitana Bonmatí remains the favourite for the Women’s Ballon d’Or, as she eyes a third consecutive crown.