CAF Awards: Nnadozie falls short in WPOTY chase but remains Africa’s best

Published on by Andrew Randa

Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has once again solidified her status as Africa's finest shot-stopper, clinching the CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award for the second year running at the CAF Awards held in Marrakech, Morocco.

Nominated for the Women's Player of the Award and Women's Goalkeeper of the Year Award, the Nigeria international shone bright at the awards.

Despite missing out on the Women’s Player of the Year award to Zambia’s Barbara Banda, Nnadozie’s excellence in goal for both club and country in 2024 ensured she retained the prestigious title.

CAF Awards: Nnadozie falls short in WPOTY chase but remains Africa's best
Photo by IMAGO

Nnadozie's incredible year in perspective

The 23-year-old has enjoyed a remarkable year, shining in the French Division 1 Arkema with Paris FC and earning the league’s Best Goalkeeper award.

Nnadozie became the first African to achieve this feat, dethroning Lyon’s Christiane Endler, who dominated the category from 2019 to 2023.

Her campaign included 10 clean sheets and an incredible seven penalty saves, underlining her reliability between the posts for Paris FC, who are pushing for honours in France.

For the soft-spoken safe hands who helped Nigeria to qualify for the Women’s Olympic Football Tournament after 16 years, it was a remarkable achievement for all the hardwork.

Nnadozie was instrumental in the Super Falcons’ qualification for next year’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

Her heroics drew rave reviews across Europe and Africa, as she consistently delivered standout performances for Paris FC, both domestically and in the UEFA Women’s Champions League.

On the international stage, Nnadozie's heroics stood out despite Nigeria’s struggles at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

CAF Awards: Nnadozie falls short in WPOTY chase but remains Africa's best
Photo by IMAGO

The Super Falcons failed to secure a single win in their group-stage matches, but Nnadozie’s outstanding performances, including key saves and her commanding presence, kept Nigeria in contention during tough matches.

Her ability to make critical saves at crucial moments has cemented her reputation as one of the best goalkeepers not just in Africa but globally.

CAF Awards: Nnadozie falls short in WPOTY chase but remains Africa’s best

Andrew Randa

Andrew Randa is a veteran Nigerian sports journalist with over 20 years of experience covering the beautiful game across Africa. Andrew served as a Media Officer for Nigeria's U-20 Men's National Team for three years, offering a unique perspective on the future stars of Nigerian football.

Beyond reporting, Andrew is a pioneer in sports graphics creation within Nigeria. His expertise extends to sports kit design, making him a true multi-faceted talent in the African sports landscape.

Andrew's experience is vast, with collaborations encompassing prestigious names like Kickoff, SuperSport, the NFF (Nigeria Football Federation), and the NPFL (Nigeria Professional Football League)