AFCON 2025
Nigeria has established a commanding presence in the nominations for the 2025 CAF Awards, with both the Super Falcons and the U-17 Flamingos securing nominations for the prestigious National Team of the Year (Women) category.
The nominations reflect Nigeria’s continued dominance across continental women’s football.
Team and Club Recognition
The Super Falcons, who clinched their 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title earlier this year, are aiming for their third consecutive CAF National Team of the Year award.
Justin Madugu’s side reaffirmed their status as Africa’s queens of the pitch by showing grit and flair to defeat South Africa, Zambia, and hosts Morocco, staging a dramatic 3-2 comeback in the final despite trailing 2-0 at half-time.
- Their main challengers in the category include WAFCON finalists Morocco, alongside semi-finalists Ghana and South Africa.
- The U-17 Flamingos were also nominated, recognized for their emergence as one of Africa’s brightest youth teams.
- In the players’ categories, Flamingos captain Shakirat Moshood has been named among the finalists for CAF Young Player of the Year (Women).
- Completing Nigeria’s formidable presence, Bayelsa Queens, the winners of the 2025 Nigerian Women’s Football League, earned a nomination for Club of the Year (Women). They will compete against powerhouses such as South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns, Morocco’s ASFAR, and TP Mazembe.
Coaching Achievements Recognized Globally
Nigeria’s success is further reflected in its technical leadership, with two coaches making the shortlist for Women’s Coach of the Year:
- Justin Madugu, the Super Falcons boss, has been shortlisted after guiding his side to continental glory. His nomination follows a groundbreaking achievement earlier this year when he became the first Nigerian coach to earn a Ballon d’Or nomination, a factor that could give him an edge in the CAF voting.
- Bankole Olowookere, tactician for the Flamingos, also made the shortlist, a deserved recognition for his role in building one of Africa’s most exciting youth teams.
Both men will face stiff competition from contenders like South Africa’s Desiree Ellis and Morocco’s Jorge Vilda.
