In yet another milestone for Nigerian football, Justin Madugu, the head coach of the Nigeria women’s national team — the Super Falcons — has been nominated for the prestigious 2025 Women’s Team Coach of the Year award at the upcoming Ballon d’Or ceremony.
The nomination, announced earlier today by France Football, the organisers of the globally renowned Ballon d’Or awards, comes in recognition of Madugu’s remarkable achievements over the past year, during which he guided the Super Falcons to new heights on both the continental and global stage.
From Africa to the World Stage
Under Madugu’s leadership, the Super Falcons retained their dominance in African women’s football by clinching their second consecutive Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title. The victory was not just about lifting the trophy — it was about the style, resilience, and tactical brilliance the Falcons displayed throughout the tournament.
The Nigerian side also impressed on the global scene, recording historic wins against top-ranked nations during international friendlies and qualifiers, a feat that boosted their FIFA ranking and drew praise from football analysts worldwide.
Praise for Madugu’s Tactical Genius
Madugu’s approach to the game — blending the attacking flair that has always defined Nigerian football with a more disciplined and organised defensive structure — has been credited for transforming the Super Falcons into a team capable of matching the best in the world.
Former Super Falcons captain Onome Ebi hailed his nomination as “a well-deserved recognition for a coach who has worked tirelessly to put Nigeria on the global football map once again.”
The Nomination List
Madugu finds himself on an elite shortlist alongside some of the biggest names in women’s football coaching — including managers from World Cup-winning squads and Champions League-winning club sides. His inclusion is being celebrated across Nigeria and Africa as a victory for the continent’s coaching talent, which is often underrepresented in global award categories.
A Boost for Nigerian Football
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) described the nomination as a “historic moment” and a testament to the growing global respect for Nigerian women’s football. In a statement, NFF President Ibrahim Gusau said:
“Coach Madugu’s nomination shows that Nigerian coaching talent can stand shoulder to shoulder with the best in the world. It’s an inspiration for all African coaches, and we are proud of his achievements.”
Eyes on the Prize
The winner of the 2025 Women’s Team Coach of the Year award will be announced at the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris later this year. While competition will be fierce, many Nigerian fans believe Madugu’s track record in 2024–2025 gives him a strong chance of claiming the trophy.
For now, the nomination alone stands as a powerful endorsement of his work — and yet another sign that the Super Falcons, under his guidance, are on course for even greater glory.
A Year of Nigerian Football Triumphs
Madugu’s nomination comes hot on the heels of Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie’s own Yashin Trophy nomination, as well as multiple player awards for the team in the past nine months — evidence that Nigerian women’s football is enjoying one of its brightest periods in history.
As the countdown to the Ballon d’Or gala begins, one thing is certain: Nigeria will be watching, cheering, and hoping that Madugu’s name will be called among the winners on football’s most glamorous night.
0 Comments