Ballon d’Or 2025: Only Two Nigerians Earn Coveted Nominations

The Ballon d’Or 2025 nomination list, officially released on Thursday, includes only two Nigerians across all award categories, shining a spotlight on Nigerian excellence in women’s football.

Super Falcons’ Chiamaka Nnadozie Nominated for Yachine Trophy

Among the standout names is Chiamaka Nnadozie, the talented goalkeeper of the Super Falcons, who has been shortlisted for the prestigious 2025 Women’s Yachine Trophy. This nomination follows her recent transfer from Paris FC in the French Division 1 Féminine to Brighton & Hove Albion in the English Women’s Super League, marking a significant step in her club career.

At just 24 years old, Nnadozie has rapidly ascended as one of the most formidable goalkeepers in women’s football. She will be contending for the Yachine Trophy alongside a competitive lineup including:

• Ann-Katrin Berger
• Cata Coll
• Hannah Hampton
• Daphne van Domselaar

This recognition underscores Nnadozie’s consistency, leadership, and remarkable saves that have earned her international acclaim.

Justine Madugu Makes History as Only Male Coach on Shortlist

Also nominated is Justine Madugu, the head coach of the Nigerian women’s national team, who led the Super Falcons to a record-setting 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title just last month. His exceptional leadership and tactical brilliance have earned him a nomination in the Women’s Team Coach of the Year category.

Notably, Madugu is the only male coach on this year’s shortlist, which includes some of the most influential names in women’s football coaching, such as:

• Renée Slegers
• Sarina Wiegman
• Sonia Bompastor
• Arthur Elias

His inclusion highlights the impressive strides Nigerian coaching staff are making on the global stage, particularly in advancing African women’s football.

Ademola Lookman: Nigeria’s Sole Representative Across All Ballon d’Or Categories

Meanwhile, in the men’s football category, Ademola Lookman remains the only Nigerian footballer nominated across all Ballon d’Or categories. The Atalanta forward, who plays in Italy’s Serie A, continues to make waves with his stellar performances and critical goals that helped secure a European title for his club.

Despite Nigeria being a football-loving nation with immense talent, the limited representation at the Ballon d’Or 2025 spotlights the challenges and opportunities in nurturing more internationally recognized players