Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has described her nomination for the 2025 Ballon d’Or Yachine Trophy as a “morale booster,” after being shortlisted among the best goalkeepers in women’s football.

 

The 24-year-old played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s unbeaten campaign to a record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title, culminating in a dramatic 3–2 comeback victory over hosts Morocco in last month’s final.

 

At club level, Nnadozie was instrumental in Paris FC’s Coupe de France Féminine triumph last season before securing a summer transfer to Women’s Super League side Brighton & Hove Albion.

 

Her exploits have now been recognised by France Football magazine, organisers of the annual Ballon d’Or awards, who named her alongside Spain’s Cata Coll, Germany’s Ann-Katrin Berger, England’s Hannah Hampton, and the Netherlands’ Daphne van Domselaar on the 2025 Yachine Trophy shortlist.

 

With the nomination, Nnadozie becomes the first African woman to be recognised for the award. In a video shared via the Super Falcons’ official X handle, she expressed gratitude and urged other African goalkeepers to keep striving.

 

“This nomination means a lot to me. It’s a joy for me and my family. It shows that all the hard work, consistency, and prayers have paid off. I’m so happy about this — it’s a morale booster,” she said. “Keep going, Chiamaka. Whatever you’re doing, the world is watching. Never stop. Of course, it shows we have many good goalkeepers in Africa. I want to encourage all African goalkeepers to keep working hard. One day, the sky will be your starting point.”