Super Falcons interim head coach Justine Madugu has described his 2025 Ballon d’Or nomination not just as a personal achievement but as a proud victory for Nigeria and the entire African continent.
At 61 years old, Madugu is shortlisted for the Women’s Team Coach of the Year award alongside prominent names like Sarina Wiegman, Emma Hayes, Bev Priestman, and Sonia Bompastor. His nomination is historic, marking the first time an African coach has been recognised in this category.
Madugu gained global recognition after leading Nigeria, in an interim capacity, to their record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title in Morocco earlier this year. The Falcons’ campaign featured five wins out of six matches, culminating in a thrilling final where they overturned a two-goal deficit to defeat the hosts.
“It’s a great honour, not just for me personally but for our beloved country,” Madugu told Flashscore. “I don’t believe any other African coach has ever been nominated in this category at this level. To be nominated is a remarkable milestone, and we thank God for it. This sets new standards that we must continue to uphold.”
Madugu expressed deep appreciation for the global support he has received, including from European fans.
“Honestly, it made me incredibly proud to be Nigerian and African,” he said. “This is bigger than me — it’s a continental achievement.”
He credited the team’s tactical discipline and strong collaboration between the technical staff and players for their WAFCON success. Madugu also used the occasion to urge increased investment and trust in African coaches.
“The gap between us and more developed nations in women’s football is rapidly closing. With the right support, we can compete confidently against any team worldwide,” he said.
Other notable African nominees for the 2025 Ballon d’Or include Chiamaka Nnadozie, Mohamed Salah, Achraf Hakimi, Barbara Banda, Serhou Guirassy, Yassine Bounou, and Temwa Chawinga.
The 2025 Ballon d’Or awards ceremony is scheduled for September 22 at the historic Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris.
