Nnadozie, Madugu Earn Ballon d’Or Nominations in Global Recognition

Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and head coach Justine Madugu have earned prestigious nominations at this year’s Ballon d’Or awards, recognising their standout performances on the international stage.

Nnadozie has been shortlisted for the Women’s Yachine Trophy, awarded to the world’s best female goalkeeper, while Madugu is in the running for the Women’s Johan Cruyff Trophy, which honours the best women’s football coach globally.

The Yachine Trophy, named after legendary Soviet goalkeeper Lev Yashin, places Nnadozie among the elite in her position. She will compete for the title against four top contenders: Ann-Katrin Berger (Germany), Cata Coll (Spain), Hannah Hampton (England), and Daphne van Domselaar (Netherlands).

Madugu’s nomination highlights his coaching excellence, particularly after leading Nigeria to an unbeaten campaign at the 2022 WAFCON in Morocco, where the Super Falcons claimed their 10th continental title. He was also named Best Coach of the Tournament.

Other nominees in Madugu’s category include Sarina Wiegman (England), Renee Slegers (Arsenal Women, Netherlands), Sonia Bompastor (Chelsea Women, France), and Athur Elias (Spain).

The 2025 Ballon d’Or awards ceremony is scheduled for September 22 at the Théâtre du Chatelet in Paris, France.