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Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu and star goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie have been nominated for the 2025 Ballon d’Or awards, following Nigeria’s historic success at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) held in Morocco.
The 61-year-old Adamawa state-born tactician has been shortlisted for the Women’s Team Coach of the Year Trophy. At the same time, Nnadozie is nominated for the Yachine Trophy, awarded to the world’s best female goalkeeper.
Madugu guided Nigeria to a record-extending 10th WAFCON title as the Super Falcons stunned host nation Morocco with a thrilling 3-2 comeback victory in the final.
It was Madugu’s first major title as head coach, having previously served as an assistant in four WAFCON tournaments (2012, 2014, 2018, 2022).
He now competes for the Ballon d’Or coaching prize alongside top names like Sarina Wiegman (England), Sonia Bompastor (Chelsea), Renée Slegers (Arsenal) and Arthur Elias (Brazil women’s team).
Madugu was also named Best Coach of the Tournament at WAFCON 2025.
Chiamaka Nnadozie, Super Falcons shot-stopper, has been shortlisted for the 2025 Ballon d’Or Yachine Trophy, awarded to the best goalkeeper in women’s football.
The 24-year-old was a standout performer throughout WAFCON, keeping four clean sheets in six matches and pulling off decisive saves, including crucial penalties, to help Nigeria lift the trophy unbeaten. Her commanding presence in goal earned her the Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament award.
Nnadozie is also a two-time CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year, underlining her consistency and excellence for both club and country.
The winners of the 2025 Ballon d’Or, organised by France Football Magazine, will be announced at a prestigious ceremony on September 22.
