Local News

Shakirat Moshood Makes Final Three Nominees For 2025 CAF Young Player Of The Year (Women)

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.

Abdul Noah Ocholi

Recent Posts

ICPC Takes Anti-Corruption Crusade To NFF

  The Nigeria Football Federation, in collaboration with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences…

44 minutes ago

14th Women Africa Cup Of Nations: Falcons Will Adopt One-match-at-a-time Strategy – Nnadozie

  Nigeria’s number one goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, has opened a window on the approach the…

48 minutes ago

Enyimba, 3SC, Sunshine Stars, Kwara United, Others Storm Lagos For Football Fiesta

    The Lagos football community is agog for the maiden edition of Tonic Cup,…

2 hours ago

**Title:** Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic **Meta Description:** Slaven Bilic has been appointed Croatia head coach for a second spell after Zlatko Dalic stepped down following the 2026 World Cup. **Slug:** croatia-confirm-slaven-bilic-return-head-coach **Alt Image Text:** Slaven Bilic during his unveiling as Croatia national team head coach — # Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic Croatia have officially confirmed the return of Slaven Bilic as head coach, with the former West Ham United manager replacing Zlatko Dalic following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Bilic returns to the national team after more than a decade away, ending a two-year absence from management as he begins a second spell in charge of his country. ## Bilic begins a second spell with Croatia The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) announced Bilic’s appointment after the Executive Committee unanimously approved the recommendation of federation president Marijan Kustic. Bilic previously managed Croatia between 2006 and 2012, guiding the national team through two European Championships before embarking on a successful club coaching career that included spells with West Ham United, West Bromwich Albion, Besiktas and Al-Ittihad. The federation believes his experience and deep understanding of Croatian football make him the ideal candidate to lead the next generation. ## Huge task replacing Zlatko Dalic Bilic succeeds one of the most successful managers in Croatia’s history. Dalic stepped down after the 2026 World Cup, bringing an end to a remarkable tenure that included a World Cup final, a World Cup semi-final and several memorable tournament campaigns. Federation president Marijan Kustic acknowledged the size of the challenge but expressed complete confidence in Bilic. > “I would like to once again thank Zlatko for the exceptional results he achieved during his tenure. It is not easy to follow in his footsteps, but we are convinced Slaven is the right person for this role.” Kustic added that Bilic’s international pedigree and extensive coaching experience were decisive factors behind the appointment. ## Bilic honoured to return Bilic described his return as the greatest honour of his coaching career and admitted he understands the expectations that come with leading one of international football’s most consistent tournament teams. > “I would like to thank President Kustic and the Federation’s leadership for the confidence they have shown in allowing me to lead the Croatian national team once again — the greatest honour for any Croatian coach.” The 57-year-old also praised the standards established under Dalic while insisting he is ready for the responsibility. > “I am fully aware of the high expectations that follow such a remarkable period under Zlatko Dalic, but anyone who takes charge of Croatia must be prepared for that because we are a football nation that lives and breathes its national team.” ## A new chapter begins Bilic now faces the task of building on Dalic’s legacy while preparing Croatia for the next international cycle. With a blend of experienced stars and emerging young talent at his disposal, Croatia will hope their returning manager can guide them to another successful era on the international stage.

Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic Croatia have…

3 hours ago

Andoni Iraola backs Harvey Elliott to revive Liverpool career after difficult Aston Villa loan

Andoni Iraola backs Harvey Elliott to revive Liverpool career after difficult Aston Villa loan Liverpool…

4 hours ago

Joe Cole backs England to beat Argentina as he claims Three Lions will ‘put Lionel Messi to bed’

Joe Cole backs England to beat Argentina as he claims Three Lions will 'put Lionel…

10 hours ago