Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has been globally recognized as the fourth-best female goalkeeper in the world, according to the rankings announced at the 2025 Ballon d’Or awards ceremony in Paris.
The Super Falcons’ star, who currently plies her trade with Brighton in England after leaving Paris FC in France at the end of last season, was named among the top five contenders for the inaugural Women’s Yashin Trophy — an accolade dedicated exclusively to the world’s best female goalkeepers.
England’s Hannah Hampton, the Chelsea and Lionesses goalkeeper, made history by becoming the first-ever recipient of the award. Hampton’s stellar performances throughout the year were pivotal in England’s Euro 2025 triumph and Chelsea’s domestic treble success. Germany’s Ann-Katrin Berger finished second, while Spain’s Cata Coll claimed the third spot.
For Nnadozie, this recognition marks a significant milestone in a burgeoning career. She first captured international attention during the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, delivering a Player of the Match performance in Nigeria’s memorable victory over co-host Australia.
Since then, she has solidified her reputation as one of Africa’s top goalkeepers and a crucial asset for both her club and country.
Hampton’s award capped an exceptional season, highlighted by 13 clean sheets in the Women’s Super League, a shared Golden Glove honor, and her influential role in England’s European success.
The Imo State born player joined Brighton on a four year deal after five years with Pris FC in France determined to now seek for trophy.She said on joining the English Club. ‘I want to win trophies, win games,most importantly to help the team achieve great things’
Though their were rumours she was going to Everton before signing for Brighton, Nnadozie said ‘It feels so great.I’m really excited to be joining this great club.Right from the beginning , when i heard the name of the club,I was so interested ,and I am happy to be here.’
It iss aid that her joining Brighton signposts the club’s ambition to challenge the big four-Chelsea, Arsenal,manchester City and Manchester United who consistently compete for the WSL title domestic cups.
Brighton has never won the WSL the FA Cup or the League Cup ,with best finish in the WSL being 6th in 2020/2021 season.They are however said to be one of the best professionally managed clubs outside the big four, with excellent facilities,investment in the women’s game and a long term project to break into the title.
The 23 year old has risen from her days in Rivers Angels before breaking into the global stage at the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup where she kept a clean sheet in Nigeria’s 2-0 win against Korea Republic,a performance that made her the youngest goalkeeepr to keep a clean sheet in the competition’s history.
With Paris FC, the Nigeria safe hands made over 85 appearances , keeping 38 clean sheets and was one of the pillars in the club securing top three finiSHes behind leaders, Lyon and PSG .
