Super Falcons of Nigeria goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie finished fourth in the race for the Women’s Yashin Trophy, as England’s Hannah Hampton claimed the prestigious award at the 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris.
Hampton, 24, enjoyed a standout season, playing a decisive role in England’s Euro 2025 triumph by saving two penalties in the final against Spain. She also inspired Chelsea to an unbeaten treble, a campaign that cemented her status as the world’s top goalkeeper for the 2024/25 season.
Nnadozie, meanwhile, further elevated her international reputation with an outstanding display at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). The Nigerian shot-stopper, who recently left Paris FC, was named Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament after helping the Super Falcons defeat hosts Morocco 3-2 in the final to secure their record-extending 10th WAFCON crown.
Super Falcons coach Justin Madugu also earned recognition, making the shortlist for Women’s Team Coach of the Year. He was nominated alongside Chelsea’s Sonia Bompastor, Arsenal’s Renée Slegers, Brazil’s Arthur Elias, and eventual winner Sarina Wiegman, who guided England to a second consecutive European title.
Elsewhere, Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal made history by becoming the first back-to-back winner of the men’s Kopa Trophy, while Italy’s Gianluigi Donnarumma claimed his second men’s Yashin Trophy, four years after his first. In the women’s Kopa Trophy category, Barcelona’s Vicky López took the prize ahead of England striker Michelle Agyemang.
The 69th Ballon d’Or gala, staged at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, celebrated the best of the 2024/25 football season. Back home, President Bola Tinubu recently honoured the Super Falcons for their WAFCON triumph with national honours, cash rewards, and housing packages.
