Alozie, Banda Shortlisted for FIFPRO Women’s World 11 after Standout Year

Super Falcons defender Michelle Alozie has been named among the nominees for the 2025 FIFPRO Women’s World 11, following an exceptional season for both club and country.

Alozie was instrumental to Nigeria’s triumphed at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco earlier this year, with the Super Falcons clinching a record-extending 10th title.

The Houston Dash full-back impressed throughout the tournament, scoring the decisive goal in the semi-final against South Africa and earning a place in the Team of the Tournament.

At club level, the 28-year-old has been a consistent performer in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), receiving praises for her defensive and attacking prowess.

She is one of eight defenders on the shortlist, joining Ona Batlle and Olga Carmona (Spain), Ellie Carpenter (Australia) and the English quartet of Millie Bright, Lucy Bronze, Alex Greenwood and Leah Williamson.

Meanwhile, Zambian forward and reigning African Women’s Player of the Year, Barbra Banda, made the shortlist for the forward positions. The 25-year-old is up against the likes of Linda Caicedo (Colombia), Athenea Del Castillo (Spain), Marta (Brazil), and Michelle Agyemang, Chloe Kelly and Alessia Russo of England.

Other categories feature leading stars such as Mary Earps, Hannah Hampton and Ann-Katrin Berger for the goalkeepers’ list, while the midfield nominees are Aitana Bonmati, Ghizlane Chebbak, Debinha, Patricia Guijarro, Vicky Lopez, Alexia Putellas, Ella Toone and Keira Walsh.

The final FIFPRO Women’s World 11 will be announced on 3 November 2025.