Ballon d’Or: Super Falcons Nnadozie ranks 4th as Hampton wins Yachine trophy

Nnadozie. Photograph: Soar Super Eagles on X
Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie placed fourth in the race for the 2025 Women’s Yashin Trophy, while England’s Hannah Hampton clinched the prestigious award at the 69th Ballon d’Or ceremony, held at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris.

Hampton, 24, was instrumental in England’s UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 triumph, delivering a standout performance in the final by saving two penalties against Spain. She also played a crucial role in Chelsea’s historic unbeaten treble, solidifying her status as the world’s top goalkeeper for the 2024/25 season.

Nnadozie, meanwhile, enjoyed a stellar campaign with Nigeria at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). The former Paris FC shot-stopper was named Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament after helping the Super Falcons defeat hosts Morocco 3–2 in a dramatic final in Rabat.

Her heroics were vital in securing Nigeria’s record-extending 10th WAFCON title, further elevating her status on the global stage.

Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu was also recognised for his role in the team’s historic campaign, earning a nomination for the Women’s Team Coach of the Year award.

Hannah Hampton during her speech. Credit: Ballon d’Or, X.

Madugu was shortlisted alongside Chelsea’s Sonia Bompastor, Arsenal’s Renée Slegers, Brazil’s Arthur Elias, and England’s Sarina Wiegman. Wiegman, 55, ultimately won the award, having led the Lionesses to their second European title, adding to her 2022 success.

In other honours, Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal made history by retaining the men’s Kopa Trophy, becoming the first player to win the award back-to-back.

England forward Michelle Agyemang was also nominated for the women’s Kopa Trophy, but the prize went to Barcelona’s Vicky López.

Italy’s Gianluigi Donnarumma claimed the men’s Yashin Trophy for a second time, having first received the accolade in 2021. His performances were pivotal in Paris Saint-Germain’s UEFA Champions League-winning campaign.

Following their WAFCON triumph, Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu honoured the Super Falcons with national awards, cash gifts, and housing incentives, recognizing their contribution to the nation’s footballing legacy.