Brighton & Hove Albion have paid tribute to their goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, after the Nigerian international secured a landmark achievement at the 2025 Ballon d’Or awards in Paris.
Nnadozie, who joined the Women’s Super League club this year, finished fourth in the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year rankings. In doing so, she etched her name into the history books as the first African — and specifically the first Nigerian — ever to be nominated for the award, underlining her growing stature in the global game.
The award itself was claimed by Chelsea and England shot-stopper Hannah Hampton, whose remarkable year for both club and country placed her firmly at the summit. Hampton not only shared the Women’s Super League Golden Glove after registering 13 clean sheets, but also played a central role in Chelsea’s treble-winning season.
Her commanding presence extended to the international stage, where she was instrumental in the Lionesses’ run to victory at Euro 2025. For Hampton, the recognition in Paris was the crowning glory of a season of dominance.
Behind her in the rankings were Germany’s Ann-Katrin Berger in second place and Spain’s Cata Coll in third. Nnadozie followed closely in fourth, a finish that reflects her remarkable journey from Nigeria’s youth ranks to one of the most respected names between the posts.
Brighton celebrated her recognition with a post on social media that read:
“@NadozieChiamaka is fourth in the #TrophéeYachine rankings at this year’s #BallonDor! Congratulations on your nomination, Chiamaka!”
The night also brought attention to Nigerian coaching talent. Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu secured fourth place in the Coach of the Year category, while England’s Sarina Wiegman was named winner after guiding the Lionesses to continental success.
For Nnadozie, even without a podium finish, the achievement signals more than personal glory. It represents a breakthrough for African women’s football on the biggest stage and offers a powerful inspiration for young players across the continent who aspire to follow in her footsteps.
