Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has earned a historic nomination for the 2025 Women’s Yachine Trophy, the Ballon d’Or award for the world’s best female goalkeeper.
The announcement celebrates Nnadozie’s stellar performances at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) and her remarkable club season, marking her as the first African woman goalkeeper to be recognized in this prestigious category.
Heroics at WAFCON 2024
Nnadozie played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s record-extending 10th WAFCON title, secured in a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory against hosts Morocco on July 26, 2025, at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat.
The 24-year-old goalkeeper kept four clean sheets and conceded just three goals across six matches, earning her the tournament’s Best Goalkeeper award and a spot in the Team of the Tournament.
Her crucial saves, particularly in the tense semi-final against South Africa, showcased her lightning-fast reflexes and composure under pressure.
Nnadozie’s leadership also helped the Super Falcons overcome a 2-0 deficit in the final, with teammates Esther Okoronkwo, Folashade Ijamilusi, and Jennifer Echegini sealing the historic win.
Club Success and Brighton Move
Nnadozie’s brilliance extends beyond the international stage.
Before her high-profile transfer to Brighton and Hove Albion Women in the summer of 2025, she was instrumental in Paris FC’s triumph in the 2025 Coupe de France Féminine, securing the club’s first major title in nearly two decades.
Her heroics in the penalty shootout against Paris Saint-Germain, resulting in a 5-4 victory, highlighted her ability to perform in high-stakes moments.
At Brighton, Nnadozie is expected to bolster the Women’s Super League side’s ambitions for their first-ever trophy.
Her 17 clean sheets in 31 games across all competitions in 2025 further justify her Ballon d’Or nomination, placing her among elite go positional peers like Ann-Katrin Berger and Cata Coll.
A Trailblazer for African Football
Nnadozie’s nomination is a landmark achievement for African women’s football, following in the footsteps of compatriot Asisat Oshoala, who was nominated for the Ballon d’Or in 2022.
At just 24, Nnadozie has already etched her name in history, having won the CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award twice and becoming the first goalkeeper, male or female, to claim the title in consecutive years.
Her journey from Rivers Angels to European stardom reflects her discipline and humility, values she credits for her success.
With the Ballon d’Or ceremony approaching, Nnadozie’s nomination shines a spotlight on her extraordinary talent and Nigeria’s dominance in African football. Whether she claims the Yachine Trophy or not, her impact remains undeniable.
