Brighton & Hove Albion have hailed their Nigerian goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, after she achieved a historic milestone at the 2025 Ballon d’Or awards.
Nnadozie finished fourth in the women’s Goalkeeper of the Year rankings, becoming the first African—and the first Nigerian—to ever be nominated for the prestigious accolade. The award was eventually won by Chelsea and England goalkeeper Hannah Hampton.
Celebrating the 24-year-old’s achievement, Brighton posted on X:
“@NadozieChiamaka is fourth in the #TrophéeYachine rankings at this year’s #BallonDor! Congratulations on your nomination, Chiamaka!”
Meanwhile, Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu also received global recognition, finishing fourth in the Coach of the Year category. The honor went to England’s Sarina Wiegman, who led the Lionesses to continued success on the international stage.
Nnadozie’s recognition further cements her reputation as one of the world’s elite goalkeepers and highlights the growing influence of African women in global football.
