Nigerian goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, has made history on the world stage after becoming the first-ever African and Nigerian to be shortlisted for the prestigious Yashin Trophy at the 2025 Ballon d’Or awards in Paris.
The Super Falcons star, who now plays for Brighton & Hove Albion, finished 4th in the women’s Goalkeeper of the Year rankings, a feat that has drawn massive celebration from her club and fans.
Brighton, in a post on their official page, praised the 24-year-old shot-stopper, writing:
“@NadozieChiamaka is fourth in the #TrophéeYachine rankings at this year’s #BallonDor! Congratulations on your nomination, Chiamaka!”
Chelsea and England’s Hannah Hampton took the top prize, while Ann-Katrin Berger (Gotham FC) and Cata Coll (Barcelona) finished 2nd and 3rd respectively. Arsenal’s Daphne van Domselaar completed the top five.
For Nnadozie, this latest recognition adds to her growing list of achievements. She was a standout performer in Nigeria’s WAFCON triumph in Morocco, pulling off crucial saves that carried the Super Falcons through difficult games.
Before her move to the Women’s Super League, she enjoyed an impressive spell with Paris FC, where she clinched the 2024 UNFP Goalkeeper of the Season award and also lifted the Coupe de France Féminine.
It was also a night of pride for Nigeria as Super Falcons head coach, Justine Madugu, finished 4th in the Women’s Coach of the Year category. The top prize went to England’s Sarina Wiegman, who guided the Lionesses to victory.
