By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola
Nigerian players have emerged as the dominant force in the International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS) Women’s Africa XI for 2025, with Super Falcons stars accounting for the highest number of selections in the continental team.
The IFFHS selection, released as the Women’s CAF Team of the Year for 2025, features goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, defenders Michelle Alozie and Asheigh Plumptre, as well as midfielders Christy Ucheibe and Rasheedat Ajibade, underlining Nigeria’s sustained influence in African women’s football.
In goal, Nnadozie anchors the side, a reflection of her reputation as one of Africa’s leading goalkeepers.
The IFFHS noted that her inclusion followed consistent performances for the Super Falcons, French club Paris FC and English side Brighton and Hove Albion, where she combined reliable shot-stopping with leadership duties.
Defensively, Alozie and Plumptre were named in a backline characterised by athleticism and physical strength.
They are joined by South Africa’s Bambanani Mbane and Lebohang Ramalepe, further highlighting the strong presence of Southern African football in the selection.
In midfield, Ucheibe provides defensive stability, while Ajibade was selected for her attacking drive, creativity and tactical intelligence.
The duo forms a balanced trio alongside Morocco’s Ghizlane Chebbak, the 2025 CAF African Women’s Player of the Year.
Meanwhile, the forward line features Malawi’s Temwa Chawinga, Zambia’s Barbra Banda and Morocco’s Sanaâ Mssoudy, reflecting a blend of established international stars and emerging attacking talent across the continent.
Explaining the basis for the selection, the IFFHS said the Africa XI is a projection for 2025 rather than a retrospective award.
The organisation added that the team was determined through statistical analysis and expert assessment of player performances at both club and international levels.
Additionally, the IFFHS noted that the final XI reflects the countries currently shaping the growth and
competitiveness of women’s football in Africa, with Nigeria, South Africa, Morocco and Zambia strongly represented.
Founded in 1984 in Germany, the IFFHS is an independent body recognised by FIFA and widely respected for its global statistical research and annual rankings. Its continental teams of the year are regarded as key benchmarks that spotlight standout performers and emerging trends in global football.
