Nigeria’s thrilling win at the 2025 WAFCON has propelled Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and head coach Justine Madugu into the global spotlight, with both earning Ballon d’Or nominations for their roles in the historic triumph.

Nnadozie was nominated for the Women’s Yachine Trophy, awarded to the best female goalkeeper in the world. Now with Brighton, the former Paris FC shot-stopper played a crucial role in Nigeria’s campaign, particularly in the dramatic 3–2 final victory over Morocco on July 26 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

She was named Goalkeeper of the Tournament, helping the Super Falcons secure their 10th WAFCON title, a performance that earned her a place on the prestigious shortlist alongside Ann-Katrin Berger of Germany, Cata Coll of Barcelona, Hannah Hampton of Chelsea, England, and Daphne van Domselaar of Arsenal.

Meanwhile, Falcons head coach Justine Madugu, who masterminded the team’s remarkable comeback in the final and undefeated run in the tournament, was nominated for the Women’s Team Coach of the Year Trophy. He is listed alongside Sonia Bompastor of Chelsea, Arthur Elias of Brazil national team, Renée Slegers of Arsenal, and Sarina Wiegman of England.

In recognition of the Super Falcons’ achievement, President Bola Tinubu conferred national honours on the team, naming each player an Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON). He also announced monetary awards of the naira equivalent of $100,000 for each player, $50,000 for each member of the technical crew, and pledged to provide each team member with a three-bedroom apartment.

The nominations mark a historic moment for Nigerian football, placing both player and coach among the elite of the global game. The 69th Ballon d’Or ceremony is scheduled to take place on September 22, 2025, at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, France.