Only two Nigerians have made the Ballon d’Or 2025 nomination shortlists released on Thursday.
Representing the Super Falcons, goalkeeper Nnadozie Chiamaka and coach Justine Madugu are the Nigerian nominees.
Chiamaka, who recently transferred from Paris FC to Brighton, is in contention for the 2025 Women’s Yachine Trophy.
The 24-year-old faces competition from Ann-Katrin Berger, Cata Coll, Hannah Hampton, and Daphne van Domselaar for this prestigious honor.
Madugu, who guided the team to an unprecedented 10th Women’s African Cup of Nations title last month, has been shortlisted for Women’s Team Coach of the Year.
He is the sole male nominee in this category, competing against Renée Slegers, Sarina Wiegman, Sonia Bompastor, and Arthur Elias.
Meanwhile, Ademola Lookman, currently playing for Atalanta in Serie A, stands as the only Nigerian nominated outside the women’s categories.
