AFCON 2025
Brighton & Hove Albion coach Dario Vidosic has praised Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka NNadozie for her achievement at the just-concluded Ballon d’or awards.
Chiamaka Nnadozie finished fourth in the inaugural Women’s Yashin Trophy in recognition of the best goalkeeper in the year under review.
Despite losing the award to Chelsea and England international goalkeeper, Hannah Hampton, Vidosic commended Nnandozie for her contributions to the national team.
“They both had a tremendous summer, and lifting continental trophies showcases how important they were to the success of their national teams,” he told the official website of the club.
“For Chiamaka to be recognized at this level is incredible, and she should be extremely proud.”
The 24-year-old Nigerian had an exceptional performance during a summer that saw her help Nigeria lift the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) for a record tenth time as they beat host Morocco to the title.
Nnadozie joined Brighton in July from Paris FC ahead of WAFCON 2024, where she produced a series of commanding displays.
The Nigerian international has made 14 saves in three matches since she arrived at the club in the summer.
She kept four consecutive clean sheets, helping Nigeria through group-stage victories over Tunisia (3-0) and Botswana (1-0), a 0-0 draw against Algeria, and a 5-0 quarter-final win over Zambia.
Nnadozie’s steady performances played a crucial role in helping the Super Falcons secure the continental title, earning her a second WAFCON victory as a player.
Her standout displays led to her being named the tournament’s Best Goalkeeper and securing a groundbreaking nomination for the Ballon d’Or Women’s Yashin Trophy—the first for an African goalkeeper on the sport’s grandest platform.
