The latest victory by Chiamaka Nnadozie at the 2025 CAF Awards is more than just another title but it is a defining moment in her already impressive career.
At only 24 years old, she has now claimed the CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award for the third consecutive time, winning in 2023, 2024, and now 2025.
Her consistency across international and club competitions, as well as her growing global recognition, positions her not just as one of Africa’s finest but as one of the most promising goalkeepers in women’s football worldwide.
Here are seven powerful reasons why her latest win matters.
1. A rare hat-trick achievement
Having won the CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year for three years consecutively (2023, 2024, and 2025), Nnadozie has cemented herself as the most elite female goalkeeper on the African continent. It highlights her sustained excellence and dominance in African women’s football.
2. Her stellar performance at WAFCON 2024
She was a key part of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024, keeping four clean sheets in six matches and conceding just two goals from open play. Her contributions were instrumental to Nigeria securing its 10th WAFCON title.
Her command of the penalty box and ability to stay composed in high-pressure situations stood out throughout the competition, earning her the Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament Award.
3. Her club successes
At the club level, Nnadozie continued to make giant strides. She played a significant role in helping Paris FC lift the Coupe de France Féminine. Following that, she completed a high-profile move to Brighton & Hove Albion in the English Women’s Super League, where she immediately made an impact.
She was named Player of the Match on her debut and has since been nominated for both WSL Save of the Month and PFA Fans’ Player of the Month, demonstrating that her talent translates across leagues and playing styles.
4. Her global recognition is growing
In 2025, she was shortlisted for The Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper Award and finished fourth in the Women’s Yashin Trophy at the Ballon d’Or.
This is proof that her influence is no longer limited to the African continent and that her increasing visibility on the global stage shows that African talent is worthy of international recognition.
5. Her leadership and composure
Beyond her skills, Nnadozie stands out for her leadership, composure under pressure, and tactical intelligence. She has repeatedly shown the ability to organize defenses, inspire confidence among her teammates, and handle penalty situations with remarkable calm—traits that make her more than just a talented shot-stopper but a true defensive leader.
6. A source of inspiration to other girls
Her journey from Rivers Angels in Nigeria to major European clubs has become a source of inspiration for young African girls aspiring to become footballers. She proves that with determination and discipline, athletes from Africa can rise to global prominence. Her story is not just about winning but about breaking barriers and shifting perceptions.
Why Her Win Will Remain Evergreen
Nnadozie’s victory is a reflection of the broader rise in women’s football across Africa and a reminder of what representation can achieve. Her consistent excellence sets a high benchmark for future goalkeepers and showcases the potential within the African sports ecosystem.
At just 24, she is not at her peak yet, which means this third title may only be the foundation of what will become a legendary football career.