Brighton coach Dario Vidosic has lauded Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie after she capped a stellar year with a top-five finish in the Women’s Yashin Trophy rankings at the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris.
The 24-year-old, who joined Albion from Paris FC in July, earned her place among the world’s elite following standout performances for Nigeria and at the club level. Nnadozie was instrumental in the Super Falcons’ record 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations triumph, keeping four consecutive clean sheets and claiming the Best Goalkeeper award. She also guided Paris FC to their first Coupe de France title in 20 years before her move to Brighton.
Although Chelsea’s Hannah Hampton won the 2025 Yashin Trophy, Nnadozie’s fourth-place finish made history as she became the first African female goalkeeper to be recognized at the Ballon d’Or.
Vidosic praised the significance of her achievement:
“As a club, squad, and everyone affiliated with the women’s program at Brighton, we are all really proud. It’s a fantastic achievement to be recognized for one of the most prestigious awards in football,” he told the club’s media.
He also reflected on the impact of both Nnadozie and teammate Michelle Agyemang, who was nominated for the Women’s Kopa Trophy, noting their importance to Nigeria’s WAFCON triumph and England’s European success, respectively.
“They both had a tremendous summer, lifting continental trophies after winning the Euros and WAFCON. It just shows how vital they were to their national teams’ success,” Vidosic said.
The Brighton boss further highlighted Nnadozie’s journey, describing her recognition as the fulfillment of a lifelong dream.
“I’m sure when she was growing up playing football in the backyard, she dreamt of these moments. To see that dream realised with a Ballon d’Or nomination is incredible. She should be very proud.”
Already established as Brighton’s first-choice goalkeeper, Nnadozie continues to cement her reputation as one of the world’s most reliable shot-stoppers, ranking third in the WSL this season with 14 saves in just three matches.
