Fakayejo Paul
LAGOS, NIGERIA – The remarkable achievements of Nigerian football continue to be recognized on the global stage, with Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu earning a prestigious nomination for the Ballon d’Or Women’s Johan Cruyff Trophy.
This honor comes just weeks after he led the Super Falcons to victory at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), cementing his status as one of the world’s top coaches.
The Johan Cruyff Trophy, awarded to the best coach in women’s football, recognizes Madugu’s tactical brilliance and leadership throughout a historic season.
He is a key nominee alongside a stellar list of coaching talents, including Sonia Bompastor, Arthur Elias, Renée Slegers, and Sarina Wiegman.
Madugu’s nomination is a powerful testament to the progress of Nigerian and African women’s football, highlighting the quality of coaching and performance emerging from the continent.
Having guided the Super Falcons to a major continental title, his inclusion in this elite category is a proud moment for the nation and a signal of the team’s growing influence on the international stage.