Brighton coach Dario Vidosic has praised Chiamaka Nnadozie after the Nigerian goalkeeper capped an impressive year by finishing in the top five of the Women’s Yashin Trophy rankings at the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The 24-year-old, who joined Albion in July from Paris FC, was shortlisted for the prestigious award following her exploits with Nigeria and at club level.
Nnadozie helped the Super Falcons win a record-extending tenth Women’s Africa Cup of Nations crown in the summer, keeping four consecutive clean sheets and being named Best Goalkeeper of the tournament.
She also guided Paris FC to their first Coupe de France title in two decades before moving to Brighton.
Although Chelsea’s Hannah Hampton claimed the 2025 Yashin Trophy, Nnadozie’s fourth-place finish represented a landmark for African football, as she became the first female goalkeeper from the continent to be recognised at the Ballon d’Or.
Vidosic said the club and wider Brighton community were proud of her recognition on such a global stage.
“As a club, squad, and everyone affiliated with the women’s program at Brighton, we are all really proud of them. 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 after the event.
The Brighton boss reflected on the impact of Nnadozie’s international and club achievements alongside fellow teammate Michelle Agyemang who was also nominated for the Women’s Kopa Trophy, highlighting the significance of their summer triumph with Nigeria and England.
“They both had a tremendous summer and lifting continental trophies after winning the Euros and WAFCON, it just showcases how important they were to the success of both their national teams,” he said.
Vidosic also underlined the inspirational nature of Nnadozie’s journey, suggesting her rise to the Ballon d’Or stage fulfilled a lifelong dream.
“I’m sure when she was growing up and she was in the back garden and playing football, she probably dreamt of these moments.
“For her to fulfill that in their nomination is incredible. She should be proud of her nomination.”
Nnadozie, who has already established herself as Brighton’s first-choice goalkeeper, continues to enhance her reputation as one of the most dependable shot-stoppers in world football, making 14 saves in three WSL games this season to rank third in the league.
