By Mike Mbonye
The African Coaches Connect has commended Super Falcons goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie for her global recognition as one of the best keepers in the World.
Nnadozie, also the goalkeeper of English Women’s Super League club, Brighton and Hove Albion, was ranked the fourth-best goalkeeper in the World at the 2025 Ballon d’Or awards in Paris on Monday.
The award was won by Chelsea and England shot stopper, Hannah Hampton, but 24-year-old Nnadozie made history as the first African and Nigerian to be nominated for the prestigious award.
Coach Eldred Sunju-Abbey, President of the African Coaches Connect, said in Abuja on Tuesday that the body was proud of the feat achieved by Nnadozie.
He recalled that Nnadozie started her football career with Rivers Angels FC of Port Harcourt and had risen to greater heights.
“She had a humble beginning from home (Rivers Angels), and it’s really amazing the kind of confidence she exudes while standing between the sticks.
“We’ve seen her journeys and trajectory and today, it is a success story for Nigeria and Africa. It is a welcome development that she is mentioned in that bracket and I think very soon, an African goalkeeper will win the Kings Gloves,’’ he said.
Abbey said Nnadozie was already a mentor to so many players who aspire to do well for their clubs and national teams.
“Nnadozie is all welcoming and accommodating. She is a mentor to a lot of footballers, who look up to her for their progress in the game,’’ he added.
The African Coaches Connect is a global hub for all football professionals. Their aim is to make football thrive and as a high income earning industry in the continent. (End)
