Brighton and Hove Albion head coach Dario Vidosic has praised Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie after she capped a remarkable year by finishing in the top five of the Women’s Yashin Trophy rankings at the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris.
The 24-year-old joined Brighton in July from Paris FC and was shortlisted for the prestigious award in recognition of her outstanding performances at both club and international level.
Nnadozie played a pivotal role as the Super Falcons secured a record-extending tenth Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title during the summer, keeping four straight clean sheets and winning the Best Goalkeeper award. She also guided Paris FC to their first Coupe de France triumph in 20 years before moving to the Women’s Super League.
Although Chelsea’s Hannah Hampton won the 2025 Yashin Trophy, Nnadozie’s fourth-place finish marked a historic achievement as she became the first African female goalkeeper to be recognised on the Ballon d’Or stage.
Reacting to her feat, Vidosic said the club and wider Brighton community were proud of her recognition.
“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 recognised for one of the most prestigious awards in the footballing world,” he told the club’s media.
The coach also reflected on the impact of Nnadozie’s achievements alongside teammate Michelle Agyemang, nominated for the Women’s Kopa Trophy, noting that their international success with Nigeria and England highlighted their importance on the global stage.
Vidosic further underlined the inspirational nature of Nnadozie’s journey, describing her rise to Ballon d’Or recognition as the fulfilment of a lifelong dream.
Already Brighton’s first-choice goalkeeper, Nnadozie continues to enhance her reputation, ranking third in the WSL this season with 14 saves from just three matches.
