Nigeria continues to shine on the African football stage — and this time, it’s Flamingos captain Shakirat Moshood grabbing the spotlight.

The young forward has been named among the final three nominees for the 2025 CAF Young Player of the Year (Women) award, a major recognition of her sensational rise in African women’s football.

Joining her on the shortlist are:

• Moha El Madani (Morocco)

• Adji Ndiye (Senegal)

Moshood’s Brilliant Year In Review

Shakirat Moshood has had a standout year — the type of year that puts a teenager firmly on the continental football map.

She was one of Nigeria’s brightest performers at the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, where the Flamingos battled their way to the Round of 16 under coach Bankole Olowookere.

But her success didn’t end on the global stage.

The young star also played a big role in Bayelsa Queens’ NWFL title triumph earlier this year. In addition, she emerged top scorer at the WAFU B Women’s Champions League qualifiers in Côte d’Ivoire, proving she’s not just talented — she’s consistent.

This blend of leadership, goals, and maturity is what earned her a place among Africa’s elite young stars.

Nigeria’s Success Extends To The Super Falcons

Nigeria’s dominance wasn’t limited to youth level.
The Super Falcons also made the final three nominees for the Women’s National Team of the Year after winning their 10th WAFCON title in Morocco.

Their competitors for the crown are:

• Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses

• Ghana’s Black Queens

It’s clear: Nigerian women’s football is thriving across every level, from U-17 to the senior national team.

A Big Moment For Moshood — And A Bigger Future Ahead

Making the final three nominees is already a massive achievement, but Moshood’s trajectory suggests this is just the beginning.

With her skill, composure, and eye for goal, she is shaping up to become one of the future pillars of the Super Falcons.

Whether she wins the award or not, Nigeria has found a gem — and Africa is paying attention.

Brentford women’s forward Ashley Cheatley has earned a spot on FIFA’s shortlist for the best goals of the year, alongside Declan Rice and Lamine Yamal.

Cheatley, 30, is nominated for the Marta Award following a spectacular overhead kick in the Women’s FA Cup against Ascot United in November 2024. Controlling a bobbling pass into the box, she flicked the ball up and acrobatically finished with her back to goal, a goal that has captured global attention.

Her achievement places her among elite company, including Marta herself, who is nominated for a solo effort in the US NWSL, Lizbeth Ovalle of Orlando Pride, Khadija Shaw of Manchester City, and Arsenal’s Mariona Caldentey, all recognized for their stunning goals during the year.

On the men’s side, Declan Rice and Lamine Yamal have been shortlisted for the Puskas Award. Rice’s free-kick against Real Madrid in the Champions League was whipped into the top corner from 30 yards, while 18-year-old Yamal curled a brilliant strike against Espanyol. Other nominees include Alerrandro of Vitoria, Santiago Montiel of Independiente, and Carlos Orrantia of Atlas, showcasing a variety of incredible goals from around the world.

All goals scored between 11 August 2024 and 2 August 2025 were eligible, with winners to be determined via a combination of fan votes and a panel of FIFA legends. Cheatley’s inclusion highlights her rise in the game and recognition of talent outside the traditional top-flight leagues, while Rice and Yamal continue to demonstrate world-class finishing on the biggest stages.

Atletico Madrid Star Andrea Medina suffered a traumatic brain injury during an intense Women’s Champions League clash against Juventus, leaving fans and teammates in shock. The 21-year-old Spain U23 defender was involved in a scary collision with Italy international Barbara Bonansea and collapsed on the pitch, requiring urgent medical attention.

Medics rushed to Medina’s aid, and she was eventually stretchered off the field and taken to the hospital. Experienced English broadcaster Jacqui Oatley described the incident as “horrendous” during live coverage for Disney+, sending thoughts and well-wishes to the young defender.

Despite the alarming injury, the game continued, with Atletico eventually losing 2-1 to Juventus. Emma Stolen Godo and Bonansea scored the goals that sealed the match, leaving Atletico 10th in the new league-phase format of the Women’s Champions League, while Juventus climbed to eighth.

Atletico Madrid later provided an encouraging update, confirming that Medina is stable and undergoing additional tests in the hospital. Head coach Carmen Menayo reassured reporters: “I think she’s doing well, she’s in the hospital, and she has to undergo tests but I think she’s doing fine. That’s the most important thing of all.”

The football community has since rallied behind Medina, sending messages of support and hoping for a speedy recovery. While Atletico faces setbacks on the pitch, the focus remains firmly on the health and wellbeing of their young star.

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