National Teams
NFF Hails Chiamaka Nnadozie, Justin Madugu after historic Ballon d’Or recognition
By Dayo Awoniyi
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has applauded Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and head coach Justin Madugu after both secured historic fourth-place finishes at the 2025 Ballon d’Or awards in Paris on Monday night.
Nnadozie, who plays for Brighton & Hove Albion in England, was ranked fourth in the women’s goalkeeper category, capping off a remarkable year that also saw her retain the African Goalkeeper of the Year award and claim the Golden Glove at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
Her commanding performances were central to Nigeria clinching a record-extending 10th continental crown.
“We heartily congratulate Chiamaka Nnadozie on her fourth-place finish in the race. It is a commendable feat given the calibre of goalkeepers she was up against. Finishing fourth is a big achievement and we believe in her capacity to win this trophy very soon,” said NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi.
Sanusi also lauded Madugu, who finished fourth in the Women’s Coach of the Year category, just months after guiding the Super Falcons to WAFCON glory.
“Coach Madugu’s feat further underscores the fact that the NFF was right to have entrusted him with the Super Falcons’ head coach role, which he justified with continental success in Morocco. We congratulate him and look forward to even greater accomplishments in the future,” he said.
Nnadozie finished behind Hannah Hampton (Chelsea/England), Ann-Katrin Berger (Gotham FC/Germany), and Cata Coll (Barcelona/Spain), while edging out Netherlands and Arsenal goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar.
In the coaching category, Madugu trailed winner Sarina Wiegman (England), Sonia Bompastor (Chelsea/France), Arthur Elias (Brazil), and Renée Slegers (Arsenal/Sweden).
The recognition marks the first time a Nigerian goalkeeper and coach have both placed inside the top five at the prestigious Ballon d’Or ceremony, further enhancing the Falcons’ growing global reputation.