Super Falcons’ first-choice goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, has been nominated for the 2025 Ballon d’Or Women’s Yachine Trophy, recognizing the best female goalkeeper in the world.
The announcement was made on Thursday by France Football, the prestigious body behind the annual Ballon d’Or awards.
Nnadozie’s nomination follows her stellar performances for both club and country, particularly her role in leading Nigeria to victory in the just-concluded Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), where the Super Falcons claimed their 10th continental title.
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The 24-year-old Nigerian shot-stopper, who plies her trade with Brighton and Hove Albion in the Women’s Super League, is in elite company.
She is nominated alongside Germany’s Ann-Katrin Berger, a consistent performer and experienced goalkeeper who continues to shine at the highest level.
Also on the shortlist is Cata Coll, the Spanish national team goalkeeper and Barcelona’s dependable last line of defense, who has enjoyed a breakthrough year with both club and country.
England’s Hannah Hampton, currently with Chelsea, and Daphne van Domselaar, the Dutch number one now guarding the posts for Arsenal Women, round out the list of five nominees.
All candidates have been lauded for their reflexes, shot-stopping prowess, and commanding presence between the sticks, making the race for the 2025 Women’s Yachine Trophy one of the most competitive in recent years.
Nnadozie’s nomination marks a significant moment not only for her career but for Nigerian and African women’s football.
Her commanding performances at WAFCON, including several crucial saves in the knockout stages, were instrumental in Nigeria’s championship run.
She also stood out in the Women’s Super League, where her move to Brighton has seen her emerge as one of the league’s top keepers.
The winner of the Women’s Yachine Trophy will be revealed at the Ballon d’Or awards ceremony in Paris later this year.
If successful, Nnadozie would become the first African goalkeeper to win the prestigious honour, a milestone that would further elevate the profile of women’s football on the continent.
Her nomination alone is a testament to her hard work, consistency, and the growing influence of African talent in global football.
