In a moment of immense pride for Nigerian football, Super Falcons’ first-choice goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, has been nominated for the 2025 Women’s Yachine Trophy, a prestigious category under the Ballon d’Or awards that recognises the most outstanding female goalkeeper in world football. The announcement places Nnadozie among the finest goalkeepers globally, further solidifying her status as one of Africa’s brightest talents in the women’s game.
Previously plying her trade with Paris FC in France’s top division, now with English side, Brighton, Nnadozie has enjoyed a stellar year both at club and international level. Her performances between the sticks have drawn widespread acclaim, particularly for her composure, reflexes, and leadership on the field. During the 2024 football season, she played a crucial role in helping Paris FC secure a strong finish in the French D1 Arkema league, consistently delivering match-winning saves and earning multiple clean sheets across the campaign.
On the international stage, the 23-year-old shot-stopper was instrumental in Nigeria’s qualification for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. Her heroics during the qualifiers, including a decisive penalty save in one of the crucial fixtures, proved vital in guiding the Super Falcons back to the Olympic stage after a lengthy absence. Her commanding presence and vocal leadership in goal have made her a fan favourite and a trusted pillar within the squad.
The Women’s Yachine Trophy, introduced by France Football, is named after the legendary Soviet goalkeeper Lev Yashin and celebrates excellence in goalkeeping. Nnadozie’s inclusion on the shortlist marks a significant moment for Nigerian football, as she becomes the first homegrown female goalkeeper from Africa to receive such recognition on this global platform.
Beyond her athletic prowess, Nnadozie has also emerged as a symbol of hope and resilience for many young girls aspiring to play football in Nigeria and across the continent. Her rise from local grassroots football in Imo State to global prominence is a testament to her hard work, discipline, and unwavering belief in her craft.
Reactions have poured in from fans, football stakeholders, and fellow professionals who see the nomination as a well-deserved honour and a reflection of Nigeria’s growing influence in the global women’s football scene. Sports analysts have described her as a modern-day goalkeeper, agile, technically sound, and fearless under pressure.
If she goes on to win the Yachine Trophy, Nnadozie will not only be creating history for herself but also for Nigeria, as it would mark the first time a female African goalkeeper has clinched the title since the award’s inception. Her nomination alone, however, already signals that Nigerian players are no longer spectators in global football conversations, they are now frontrunners.
As anticipation builds ahead of the Ballon d’Or ceremony scheduled to take place later in the year in Paris, all eyes will be on Chiamaka Nnadozie, whose journey continues to inspire and elevate the profile of African women’s football on the world stage.
