Justine Madugu: CAF salutes Super Falcons’ quiet tactician after historic Ballon d’Or nomination

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has hailed Justine Madugu, the “quiet tactician” behind the Super Falcons’ remarkable success, following his nomination for the prestigious 2025 Ballon d’Or Women’s Team Coach of the Year award.

Madugu, who was selected by the Nigeria Football Federation to lead the national women’s team after Randy Waldrum, masterminded Nigeria’s stunning comeback from a two-goal deficit to beat Morocco 3-2 in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final in Morocco, securing a record-extending tenth continental title for the Super Falcons. 

His tactical acumen and steady leadership throughout the tournament earned him widespread acclaim and the title of best coach of the tournament.

The 61-year-old Nigerian coach found himself on an elite list of nominees announced by the official Ballon d’Or organisers, alongside renowned names such as Chelsea's Sonia Bompastor, Brazil’s Arthur Elias, Arsenal’s Renée Slegers, and England’s Sarina Wiegman. 

Madugu’s nomination marks a historic milestone as he becomes the first Super Falcons coach to receive such global recognition.

In celebrating the achievement on social media, CAF posted on X: “His tactics? Quiet. His impact? Global,” hailing the subtle yet profound influence Madugu has had on Nigerian and African women’s football.

Madugu’s nomination reflects not only the Super Falcons’ triumphant WAFCON campaign but also signals the rising status of African coaches on the world stage. 

It follows other notable Nigerian football successes, including Victor Osimhen’s top-10 finish in the men’s Ballon d’Or and emerging stars making waves internationally.

The announcement comes alongside Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie’s nomination for the Yachine Women’s Trophy, recognising her outstanding performances in goal during the same WAFCON tournament.

The winner of the Women’s Team Coach of the Year Trophy will be revealed at the 69th Ballon d’Or ceremony on September 22, 2025, at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, France.

Madugu’s quiet brilliance, tactical mastery, and inspirational leadership have not only brought glory to Nigeria but have now earned him a place among the world’s coaching elite