The Nigeria Football Federation has extended its congratulations to Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie after she secured a remarkable fourth-place finish at the 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris on Monday night.
Nnadozie, who has dominated African women’s football in recent years, once again underlined her world-class quality on the global stage. The Brighton & Hove Albion shot-stopper has been voted Africa’s Best Goalkeeper for two consecutive years and was also crowned Goalkeeper of the Tournament at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, where she inspired Nigeria to a record-extending 10th continental title.
“We heartily congratulate Chiamaka Nnadozie on her fourth-place finish. It is a commendable feat considering the calibre of goalkeepers she was up against,” said NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi. “Finishing fourth is a big achievement and we believe in her capacity to win this trophy very soon.”
The NFF also praised Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu, who himself earned a fourth-place finish in the Women’s Coach of the Year category.
“Coach Madugu’s achievement further underscores the fact that the NFF was right to appoint him as Super Falcons head coach,” Sanusi continued. “This was validated when he led the team to victory at the WAFCON in Morocco. We congratulate him and believe greater recognition awaits in the years to come.”
At the Ballon d’Or, England and Chelsea goalkeeper Hannah Hampton claimed the prestigious Trophée Yachine, edging out Ann-Katrin Berger (Gotham FC) and Cata Coll (Barcelona). Nnadozie placed just outside the top three, but finished ahead of Arsenal’s Daphne van Domselaar in the elite Top Five ranking.
Meanwhile, Madugu shared the coaching shortlist with some of the biggest names in women’s football. Sarina Wiegman, who guided England to European Championship glory, took home the award, while Chelsea’s Sonia Bompastor, Brazil’s Arthur Elias, and Arsenal’s Renée Slegers rounded out the top nominees.
For Nnadozie and Madugu, the recognition is another testament to Nigeria’s growing influence in world football.
