Ballon d’Or 2025: Super Falcons Celebrate Nnadozie Chiamaka and Coach Justin Madugu’s Historic Nominations
The Super Falcons of Nigeria have extended heartfelt congratulations to their goalkeeper Nnadozie Chiamaka and head coach Justin Madugu, following their nominations for prestigious awards ahead of the 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony scheduled for next month in Paris.
According to TalkTalk Nigeria, Chiamaka and Madugu are the only Nigerians to make the shortlist released by France Football, organizers of the annual Ballon d’Or awards.
Nnadozie Chiamaka: Yachine Trophy Nominee
The 24-year-old Brighton shot-stopper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, earned a nomination for the 2025 Women’s Yachine Trophy, which honours the best women’s goalkeeper in the world.
She will compete against an elite group of contenders including:
Ann-Katrin Berger (Germany)
Cata Coll (Spain)
Hannah Hampton (England)
Daphne van Domselaar (Netherlands)
Justin Madugu: Women’s Coach of the Year
Coach Justin Madugu’s nomination comes on the heels of Nigeria’s historic 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) triumph in July, under his leadership. His tactical brilliance and calm presence on the touchline have earned him global recognition.
He faces tough competition from top coaches such as:
Sonia Bompastor (France)
Arthur Elias (Brazil)
Renée Slegers (Netherlands)
Sarina Wiegman (England)
Super Falcons React
In a celebratory post on X (formerly Twitter), the Super Falcons praised the duo’s achievements:
“She let her gloves do the talking all season long. Big congratulations, @NadozieChiamaka.”
“Not just on the pitch, we’re winning on the touchline too. Congratulations to our head coach, Justin Madugu, on his Ballon d’Or nomination for Coach of the Year. History made for Nigeria.”
This marks a monumental moment for Nigerian football, as it’s the first time a Nigerian female goalkeeper and coach are being recognized on the global Ballon d’Or stage — a testament to the growing influence and excellence of African football.
