Both Nigeria’s Super Falcons and the U-17 Flamingos have secured nominations for the Women’s National Team of the Year at the 2025 CAF Awards, according to Soccernet.ng.
The Super Falcons, who celebrated their 10th triumph at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) earlier this year, are poised to claim the CAF National Team of the Year title for the third year running.
Under the leadership of Justin Madugu, the team demonstrated remarkable resilience and skill, overcoming formidable opponents such as South Africa, Zambia, and host nation Morocco during their July campaign. This victory further cemented their reputation as Africa’s dominant force in women’s football.
Morocco, who pushed Nigeria to the limit in the WAFCON final-leading 2-0 at halftime before succumbing 3-2-are expected to be the Falcons’ fiercest rivals for the award.
Other strong contenders include Ghana and South Africa, both of whom reached the semifinals but will need to surpass the Falcons’ impressive legacy and continental stature to claim the honor.
Meanwhile, the U-17 Flamingos have risen as one of the continent’s most promising young squads.
Guided by coach Bankole Olowookere, the Flamingos remained undefeated throughout their qualification journey for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco. They aspire to become the first African team to lift the women’s youth World Cup trophy, a milestone that could strengthen their bid for the award.
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Madugu, Olowookere, and Moshood Lead Nigeria’s Stellar Lineup
Nigeria’s excellence extends beyond team achievements to individual accolades.
Justin Madugu, head coach of the Super Falcons, has been shortlisted for Women’s Coach of the Year after steering his team to continental success.
His accomplishments have gained international recognition, as he became the first Nigerian coach nominated for the prestigious Ballon d’Or earlier this year-a historic feat that may influence the award’s outcome.
Similarly, Bankole Olowookere of the Flamingos earned a spot on the shortlist, acknowledging his pivotal role in nurturing one of Africa’s most dynamic youth teams. Both coaches will contend with South Africa’s Desiree Ellis and Morocco’s Jorge Vilda for the honor.
In the player categories, Flamingos captain Shakirat Moshood has been named a finalist for CAF Young Player of the Year (Women), highlighting her rising star status.
Adding to Nigeria’s strong representation, Bayelsa Queens, champions of the 2025 Nigerian Women’s Football League, have been nominated for Club of the Year (Women). They will face competition from top clubs including South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns, Morocco’s ASFAR, and TP Mazembe.