Zambian star Barbra Banda and Malawi’s prolific forward Temwa Chawinga have been named among the nominees for the 2025 Women’s Ballon d’Or, marking a monumental achievement for African women’s football. The duo are the only African representatives on the shortlist, which was officially unveiled on Wednesday by France Football.
African Stars Among the World’s Elite
Barbra Banda, currently plying her trade with Orlando Pride in the United States’ National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), continues to etch her name into the history books. The Zambian captain had a stellar campaign over the Ballon d’Or evaluation period—from August 1, 2024, to August 1, 2025—scoring 18 goals for her club. Banda also shone on the international stage, netting three times in her maiden Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) appearance, guiding Zambia to a memorable quarterfinal finish.
Banda’s 12th-place finish in the 2024 Ballon d’Or was already a record for any African female footballer. Her 2025 nomination now cements her status as one of the continent’s all-time greats.
Temwa Chawinga, meanwhile, delivered a breathtaking season in the NWSL with Kansas City Current. The Malawian forward clinched the Golden Boot, hammering in 24 goals and tormenting defences across the league with her pace, positioning, and deadly finishing. Her performances have elevated Malawi’s status on the global women’s football map.
Recognition for Nigerian Excellence
In addition to Banda and Chawinga’s historic nominations, Nigeria’s head coach Justin Madugu has been shortlisted for the Women’s Coach of the Year award. Madugu masterminded Nigeria’s triumphant run to their 10th WAFCON title, reinforcing the Super Falcons’ dominance on the continent.
Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, also from Nigeria, has been nominated for the prestigious Yachine Trophy, awarded to the best goalkeeper in women’s football. Nnadozie was rock-solid throughout the WAFCON campaign, conceding just two goals from open play and pulling off several crucial saves during Nigeria’s title-winning run.
A Landmark Year for African Women’s Football
These nominations reflect a rising tide in African women’s football. For Banda and Chawinga, their inclusion among the world’s elite is not only personal recognition but also a statement of intent for the continent. With the WAFCON now offering a bigger stage and the NWSL attracting global audiences, African players are proving they can perform and dominate at the highest level.
Banda and Chawinga’s nominations may have surprised some in Europe, but for followers of African football, it’s long-overdue recognition for players who have consistently delivered.
With the awards ceremony set to take place later this year, the continent will be holding its breath to see if one of its heroines can lift the most coveted individual prize in world football.
