African football stars are making headlines worldwide as the nominees for the prestigious 2024/25 Ballon d’Or awards have been announced. This year, several talented players and a coach from Africa have earned well-deserved spots on these lists, showcasing the continent’s growing influence in global football. Among the leading names are Egypt’s Mohamed Salah, Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, and Nigeria’s Chiamaka Nnadozie, whose exceptional performances throughout the season have captured international attention. The awards gala, set for September 22nd in Paris, promises to be a memorable event celebrating these top athletes.
🌟 African Men’s Footballers Shine Brightly
Three outstanding African players are vying for the men’s Ballon d’Or, standing alongside some of the biggest names in football. Mohamed Salah, the prolific forward for Liverpool, had an incredible season, scoring 34 goals and assisting 23 times in 52 appearances. He was instrumental in guiding the Reds to the Premier League title. Achraf Hakimi, Paris Saint-Germain’s dynamic right-back, played a crucial role in the club’s historic UEFA Champions League victory, contributing to 30 goals and helping secure 26 clean sheets. Joining them is Borussia Dortmund striker Serhou Guirassy, who enjoyed a sensational season with 38 goals in 50 matches, including 13 in just 14 Champions League games. These nominations truly highlight their impactful contributions on the biggest stages.
🧤 Celebrating Goalkeeping and Women’s Excellence
The recognition extends beyond the men’s main award. Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, who plays for Al Hilal, is nominated for the Yashin Trophy, awarded to the best goalkeeper. He faces stiff competition from other world-class shot-stoppers. In women’s football, Nigeria’s Chiamaka Nnadozie is among the contenders for the Ballon d’Or Féminin, aiming for her first win. She is joined by fellow African stars Barbra Banda of Zambia and Temwa Chawinga of Malawi. Banda had a remarkable year with Orlando Pride, helping them win both the NWSL Shield and Championship, while also contributing three goals for Zambia in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. Chawinga also had an impressive season, further solidifying Africa’s presence in women’s football.
🏆 Coaching Prowess on the Global Stage
Adding to Africa’s impressive representation, Nigeria women’s national team coach Justine Madugu has received a historic nomination for the 2025 Women’s Team Coach of the Year award. This well-deserved recognition comes after he led the Super Falcons to an extended record for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title in Morocco, where they defeated the host nation 2-1 in a thrilling final in Rabat. Madugu’s nomination places him among an elite group of coaches, further cementing Africa’s rising profile in the sport.
