Five Nigerian players have been named in the International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS) Women’s Africa Best XI for 2025, placing the Super Falcons ahead of continental rivals Morocco and South Africa.
The list features goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, defenders Michelle Alozie and Ashleigh Plumptre, and midfielders Rasheedat Ajibade and Christy Ucheibe, giving Nigeria the strongest representation in the selection released by the IFFHS.
Morocco and South Africa each have two players included, while Zambia and Malawi are represented by one player apiece.
Nnadozie keeps her place in goal after another impressive year at club and international level, reinforcing her reputation as one of Africa’s leading goalkeepers. Her inclusion continues a run of recognition that has seen her consistently rated among the continent’s best in her position.
Alozie. Photo Credit: CAF
Alozie is selected at right-back, with South Africa’s Lebohang Ramalepe on the left, while Plumptre partners Bambanani Mbane in central defence to form an experienced pairing.
In midfield, Morocco’s Ghizlane Chebbak, the 2025 CAF African Women’s Player of the Year, lines up alongside Super Falcons captain Ajibade and Ucheibe, offering a balance of creativity, leadership and tactical discipline.
Photo Credit: IFFHS
The forward line is made up of Malawi’s Temwa Chawinga, Zambia’s Barbra Banda and Morocco’s Sanaâ Mssoudy. None of Nigeria’s attackers from their most recent Women’s Africa Cup of Nations triumph were included in the final selection.
READ MORE:npfl-hungry-rangers-slaughter-wolves-4-2-reasons-at-the-cathedral
Despite that omission, Nigeria remain the dominant force in African women’s football. The Super Falcons will defend their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title later this year in Morocco, where they will be targeting a record-extending 11th championship.
Super Falcons celebrating their WAFCON title in Morocco. Photo Credit: CAF
Nigeria claimed the last title with victories over Zambia in the quarter-finals, South Africa in the semi-finals and hosts Morocco in the final.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW!
Only South Africa and Equatorial Guinea have lifted the trophy outside Nigeria’s long-standing dominance, underlining the scale of the Super Falcons’ success on the continent.
