Super Falcons goalie Chiamaka Nnadozie and coach Justin Madugu bag Ballon d’Or nominations
Since winning the Women African Cup of Nations (WAFCON) last July in Morroco, the Nigerian women’s football has earned more global recognition as Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and head coach Justin Madugu have both been nominated for the prestigious honours at the 2025 Ballon d’Or awards.
Nnadozie, a standout performer in the 2024 WAFCON, has been shortlisted for the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year, while Madugu has earned a nomination for Women’s Coach of the Year.
Their nominations came on the heels of Nigeria’s historic 10th WAFCON title, secured in Morocco after a dominant run in the tournament.
Nnadozie produced a series of heroic displays in goal, making crucial saves and asserting her presence to help steer the Super Falcons to victory.
On the other hand, Coach Madugu, who took over the Super Falcons in late 2023, has been praised for revitalizing the team and instilling a disciplined and attacking style of play.
Under his leadership, the Falcons overcame strong competition from host nation Morocco and defending champions South Africa enroute to lifting the trophy.
The Super Falcons team also maintained 36th position in the latest FIFA women’s world ranking released on it’s official website.
While the Super Falcons remain the number one team in Africa, WAFCON 2024 runners-up Morocco are third on the continent and dropped to 64th spot in the world.
Former WAFCON champions Banyana Banyana of South Africa maintained 54th place in the world and second in Africa Ghana’s Black Queens who claimed third place at the WAFCON dropped to 67th position in the global ranking.
