Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu and goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie have been nominated for the prestigious 2025 Ballon d’Or awards – the Johan Cruyff Trophy and Yachine Trophy, respectively.
Madugu was shortlisted for the Johan Cruyff Trophy, which honours the best women’s football coach globally, following Nigeria’s dramatic victory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). Under his leadership, the Super Falcons clinched their 10th continental title, defeating host nation Morocco 3-2 in a thrilling comeback during the final in Rabat.
The team remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, scoring 14 goals and conceding only three in six matches.
Madugu is nominated alongside top international coaches including Arthur Elias (Brazil), Renee Slegers (Arsenal), Sarina Wiegman (England), and Sonia Bompastor (Chelsea).
Meanwhile, Nnadozie’s commanding performances earned her the Best Goalkeeper award at WAFCON 2024 and a place in the Team of the Tournament. She is among the nominees for the Yachine Trophy, which celebrates the world’s best women’s goalkeeper.
Other nominees in her category include Ann-Katrin Berger (Gotham FC), Cata Coll (Barcelona), Hannah Hampton (Chelsea), and Daphne van Domselaar (Arsenal).