By Boluwatife Kehinde
Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has described her historic nomination for the 2025 Women’s Ballon d’Or as nothing short of a miracle.
In an interview with BBC Sport, the 24-year-old shot-stopper expressed her delight at being recognised on the global stage.
“It is a miracle for me. It shows that all the hard work, dedication, and everything I’ve been doing in the past has been worth it,” Nnadozie said.
READ ALSO: Again, Chiamaka Nnadozie scoops CAF Best Goalkeeper award
Her inclusion on the prestigious shortlist marks a landmark moment as she becomes the first African goalkeeper ever to be nominated. The recognition follows a remarkable year for both club and country.
Before joining Brighton & Hove Albion in the Women’s Super League this summer, Nnadozie played a pivotal role for Paris FC, guiding the French side to glory in the Coupe de France Féminine.
Her consistent displays between the posts made her one of Europe’s most reliable goalkeepers.
On the international stage, she cemented her legendary status by inspiring Nigeria to their record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title in Morocco in 2024.
Her commanding presence and decisive saves were vital as the Super Falcons reclaimed continental dominance.
Nnadozie has also been recognised at the continental level, winning back-to-back CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year awards in 2023 and 2024.
These achievements underline her reputation as one of the finest goalkeepers in women’s football today.
The Nigerian has already made her mark in the Women’s Super League. On her debut for Brighton, she kept a clean sheet in a hard-fought goalless draw against Aston Villa, pulling off four crucial saves to secure a valuable point for her new club.
Her performance reinforced why she is considered among the very best in her position.
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With her Ballon d’Or nomination, Nnadozie not only carries the hopes of Nigerian and African football but also sets an inspiring example for aspiring players across the continent.
For the young goalkeeper, the recognition is more than just personal—it is proof that resilience, hard work, and self-belief can break barriers and make history.
