Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu has reacted to his Ballon d’Or nomination for the award of Women’s Johan Cruyff Trophy, revealing that such a huge recognition makes him incredibly proud, Footynaija.com.
Madugu recently led the Super Falcons of Nigeria to a record-extending tenth Women’s Africa Cup of Nations triumph. That historic achievement duly earned him recognition as one of the best women’s football team coaches in the world.
Madugu’s nomination is yet another historic feat as no other African coach has earned such a recognition and the Falcons boss just wants to continue making both Nigeria and the whole of Africa proud.
What Justin Madugu said
“It’s a great honour not only for me as a person but for our dear country because I don’t know if any other African coach have ever been nominated at that level at this category,” Madugu said in an interview with Flashscore.
“It’s not a small feat; to be nominated alone is a remarkable story. We thank God for it. It has set new heights and standards that we must try to do our best to ensure that we live up to expectations. It is not easy.
“This is the first time an African has received an award of such magnitude and recognition, making it more than just a Nigerian achievement.
“I was genuinely surprised to see comments and reports from Europeans rooting for and supporting us. Honestly, it made me incredibly proud to be a Nigerian and an African.”
Madugu was nominated alongside the likes of Sarina Wiegman, Renee Slegers, Arthur Elias and Sonia Bompastor, all of whom have also enjoyed remarkable success with the various teams that they coach.
Wiegman led the Three Lionesses of England to Euro 2025 glory while Slegers guided Arsenal to the UEFA Champions League crown after beating Barcelona in the final.
Bompastor’s domestic treble-winning campaign with Chelsea earned her a nomination with Elias also making the list of nominees courtesy of his Copa America success with Brazil.