Ballon d’Or Nomination Means the World To Me – Nnadozie

Ballon d’Or Nomination Means the World To Me – Nnadozie

Sampson Adedeji

Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has expressed her joy after earning a nomination for the 2025 Ballon d’Or Yachine Trophy, a recognition that places her among the finest goalkeepers in women’s football, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The 24-year-old was a key figure in Nigeria’s unbeaten run to a record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title, capping it with a thrilling 3-2 comeback victory over hosts Morocco in last month’s final.

She also played a decisive role in Paris FC’s Coupe de France Féminine triumph last season before sealing a summer move to Women’s Super League side Brighton & Hove Albion.

Her stellar performances have now been acknowledged by France Football Magazine, organisers of the annual Ballon d’Or awards, who shortlisted her alongside Spain’s Cata Coll, Germany’s Ann-Katrin Berger, England’s Hannah Hampton, and the Netherlands’ Daphne van Domselaar for the prestigious women’s goalkeeper of the year honour.

With the nomination, Nnadozie becomes the first African woman to make the Yachine Trophy shortlist. In a video posted on the official Super Falcons X handle, she said: “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. 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.”