“Four Nigerian Women Make Guardian’s Top 100 — Nnadozie, Ajibade in the Lead”

Four Nigerian female footballers have made a mark in The Guardian’s 2025 ranking of the world’s top 100 women players. Leading the pack are goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and forward Rasheedat Ajibade, joined by first-time entrants Gift Monday and Esther Okoronkwo.

Nnadozie returned to the global top 100 at 65th place after missing out in 2024, boosted by her reputation as one of the world’s elite shot-stoppers, with 11 clean sheets last season and strong performances for Nigeria at the continental tournament.

Ajibade made her debut at 79th, climbing from 104th in 2024. Her move to a top club this season and leadership during Nigeria’s triumphant Women’s Africa Cup campaign helped secure her place among the world’s best.

For Gift Monday and Okoronkwo, this marks their first appearance on the prestigious list, highlighting the growing depth of Nigeria’s female football talent and its increasing global recognition.