Nigeria’s Chiamaka Nnadozie Finishes Fourth in Inaugural Women’s Yashin Trophy at 2025 Ballon d’Or

Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has earned global recognition after finishing fourth in the first-ever Women’s Yashin Trophy rankings at the 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony held on September 22.

The 24-year-old Super Falcons star, who plays for Paris FC, was lauded for her commanding performances in both club and international football. Nnadozie’s standout saves at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations and her heroics in the UEFA Women’s Champions League contributed to her historic debut in the award shortlist, sparking nationwide celebrations in Nigeria.

The prestigious inaugural trophy was won by Hannah Hampton, the Chelsea and England goalkeeper, following her crucial role in Chelsea’s domestic treble and England’s successful Euro 2025 title defense. Hampton gave an emotional tribute to her late mentor Matt Beard, dedicating the award to goalkeepers past and present.

England’s Sarina Wiegman was named Women’s Coach of the Year on the same night, capping a memorable Ballon d’Or ceremony for English football.

For Nnadozie, her fourth-place finish is being hailed as a breakthrough moment for African women’s goalkeeping on the global stage.

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