Spain's stars keep taking the sport's top individual prize, and African talents are still fighting for a seat at the elite table.
For African football fans, the Women's Ballon d'Or conversation has a familiar and frustrating ring: the continent's talent is undeniable, yet the podium keeps filling up with names from Europe. Stars like Zambia's Barbra Banda and Nigeria's Asisat Oshoala have shown what African attackers can do at the highest level, but the sport's biggest individual prize has stayed out of reach.
Meanwhile, Spain has turned the award into something close to a private members' club. Alexia Putellas and Aitana Bonmatí have set the standard in recent years, with Barcelona's midfield machine providing the platform for individual brilliance. Their control of games, their goals and their big-night moments have made them the benchmark for voters.
So as Monday's ceremony approaches, the big question is whether anyone can break the Spanish grip. Challengers from England, the United States and elsewhere will be hoping a major-tournament run or a standout club season can tip the balance, but Barcelona's dominance makes the task enormous.
For Africa, the stakes go beyond one trophy. Greater visibility comes from deep runs in the Champions League, stronger domestic leagues and consistent investment in the women's game across the continent. Until more African players are regular fixtures in Europe's and the NWSL's biggest games, the gap in recognition will remain. The talent is there. The spotlight has to follow.
