Nigeria’s Chiamaka Nnadozie has added another milestone to her growing list of achievements, earning global recognition as the fourth-best goalkeeper in women’s football for the 2024/25 season.
The Super Falcons’ safe hands received the honour on Monday night at the prestigious Ballon d’Or ceremony, held at the Théâtre du Chatelet in Paris, France.
It was a historic moment as the 24-year-old became the first African ever nominated for the newly introduced women’s Yachine Trophy, created to celebrate the finest goalkeepers in the women’s game.
England’s Hannah Hampton claimed the inaugural prize, while Germany’s Ann-Katrin Berger and Spain’s Cata Coll finished second and third. Nnadozie ranked ahead of the Netherlands’ Daphne van Domselaar to secure fourth place.
Beyond the recognition, her performances speak volumes. Nnadozie was instrumental in Nigeria’s triumph at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where the Falcons lifted their 10th continental title. She kept four clean sheets in six matches and was deservedly named the best goalkeeper of the tournament.
Her excellence has been consistent, with back-to-back CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year awards cementing her status as Africa’s undisputed No. 1.
On a night of mixed fortunes for Nigeria, Super Falcons coach Justin Madugu missed out on the women’s best coach award, which went to Sarina Wiegman for guiding England to victory at the 2025 Euros.
For Nnadozie, however, the night confirmed what many already knew: she is not only Africa’s pride but also one of the finest goalkeepers in world football.
