In a moment of national pride and groundbreaking recognition, Nigeria’s Super Falcons have expressed heartfelt congratulations to both Chiamaka Nnadozie, the team’s standout goalkeeper, and head coach Justin Madugu, following their nominations by France Football, the prestigious organizers of the Ballon d’Or 2025 set to take place in Paris next month. According to LMSINT MEDIA, this landmark recognition marks a significant milestone in Nigerian football history as Chiamaka Nnadozie and Justin Madugu are the only Nigerians to be shortlisted for this year’s award categories, highlighting their exceptional contributions to the sport over the past year. Chiamaka Nnadozie Nominated for the 2025 Women’s Yachine Trophy The highly talented 24-year-old shot-stopper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, who plays for Brighton & Hove Albion W.F.C., has earned a nomination for the coveted Women’s Yachine Trophy. This award is exclusively dedicated to the best female goalkeepers in the world, and Nnadozie’s inclusion further cements her status as one of the finest in global women’s football. She will go head-to-head with top international talents including: This recognition follows an extraordinary season where Nnadozie’s performances consistently demonstrated agility, confidence, and match-winning saves that have drawn international acclaim. Coach Justin Madugu Nominated for Women’s Coach of the Year Meanwhile, Super Falcons’ head coach, Justin Madugu, has been nominated for the Ballon d’Or Women’s Coach of the Year category. His nomination comes after his brilliant leadership which saw Nigeria claim their 10th Women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title in July, reinforcing the Super Falcons’ dominance on the continent. Madugu will be contending with elite coaches such as: This nomination is a testament to Madugu’s tactical intelligence, mentorship, and the transformation he has brought to Nigerian women’s football in recent years. Super Falcons React on Social Media Reacting to the news, the Super Falcons official X (formerly Twitter) account shared a celebratory post that read: “She let her gloves do the talking all season long. Big congratulations,@NadozieChiamaka. Not just on the pitch, we’re winning on the touchline too. Congratulations to our head coach, Justin Madugu, on his Ballon d’Or nomination for Coach of the Year. History made for Nigeria.” This moment signifies not just a personal victory for the nominees but a cultural and national triumph that places Nigeria firmly on the global football map. Their achievements serve as an inspiration to aspiring female footballers and coaches across the continent and are a true reflection of the resilience, talent, and passion rooted in Nigerian sports.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has extended heartfelt accolades to the Super Falcons following their exceptional performance in the 2024 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), describing the team’s triumph as a historic milestone that has permanently engraved Nigeria’s name in golden letters on the African football map. In a formal declaration issued by Mohammed Idris, the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, the government praised the unwavering determination and discipline exhibited by the national senior women’s football team, stating that the Falcons have once again made the nation proud on the global stage. The Super Falcons returned to Nigeria on Monday, just 48 hours after they delivered an unforgettable comeback by overturning a 2-0 deficit to defeat host country Morocco 3-2 in a dramatic final match that sealed their status as continental champions. “We heartily welcome our courageous Super Falcons back from Rabat, Morocco, where they emerged victorious as the champions of the 2024 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations,” the Minister’s statement read. Mohammed Idris noted that this monumental victory goes far beyond the boundaries of sports, symbolizing the enduring resilience, excellence, and unbreakable spirit of Nigerians, which the Super Falcons have consistently showcased. “Through their exceptional skills, world-class performance, unity, and unyielding discipline, these national heroines have written Nigeria’s name in gold on the continental landscape,” the statement emphasized. On behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and the entire federal leadership, the Minister conveyed deep appreciation to the entire squad — including the players, coaching staff, and technical team — for their bravery, selflessness, and dedication. “You have reignited hope, inspired a new generation, and proven once again the transformative power of sports as a force for national unity and motivation,” Idris said. The statement also reassured Nigerians of the Tinubu administration’s unwavering dedication to investing in sports infrastructure, athlete development, and empowerment. The government affirmed that efforts will be intensified to provide adequate support and resources for Nigerian athletes to reach their full potential. As the triumphant Super Falcons landed in Abuja this afternoon, citizens were encouraged to line the streets and join the celebratory motorcade, which moved from the Abuja City Gate through Eagle Square to the Presidential Villa, where the champions were officially received by top government officials. “The Super Falcons have raised Nigeria’s flag high and filled the hearts of millions with pride. Welcome home, champions of Africa!”
