Super Falcons defender Michelle Alozie has earned a historic nomination for the 2025 FIFPRO Women’s World XI, becoming one of only three African players shortlisted for the prestigious global honor voted for exclusively by professional footballers worldwide.
The Houston Dash full-back joins a star-studded list of 26 players following a standout year for both club and country, one that saw her play a decisive role in Nigeria’s 2024 WAFCON triumph in Morocco.
Alozie Shortlisted After a Standout Year
According to FIFPRO, the 26 nominees received the highest number of votes from fellow professionals based on their performances between August 11, 2024, and August 3, 2025. Over 26,000 players from 68 countries participated in the voting process, underscoring the award’s credibility.
Nominees were required to have played in at least 20 official matches during the evaluation period. The final Women’s World XI will consist of one goalkeeper, three defenders, three midfielders, and three forwards, with an additional outfield player slot for the next-highest vote-getter. Winners will be announced on November 3, 2025, via FIFPRO’s digital platforms.
Alozie Among the World’s Elite Defenders
Alozie, 28, is one of seven defenders shortlisted, joining Lucy Bronze, Millie Bright, and Alex Greenwood (England); Olga Carmona and Ona Batlle (Spain); and Ellie Carpenter (Australia).
Her inclusion caps off a remarkable year in which she became a key figure in Nigeria’s 10th WAFCON title, famously scoring the stoppage-time winner against South Africa in the semi-final before being named in the Team of the Tournament.
At the club level, Alozie’s consistency with Houston Dash in the NWSL has been a highlight, showcasing her blend of defensive solidity, attacking flair, and leadership.
African Representation and FIFPRO Legacy
Alozie’s nomination sees her stand alongside Morocco’s Ghizlane Chebbak and Zambia’s Barbra Banda as the only African players on the 2025 shortlist, reinforcing Africa’s growing influence in the women’s game.
Since its inception in 2005, the FIFPRO World XI has represented football’s most authentic player-voted honor, with the women’s version introduced in 2016. Wendie Renard and Lucy Bronze currently share the record for the most selections (7 each), while in the men’s category, Lionel Messi leads with 17, followed by Cristiano Ronaldo with 15.
Houston Dash Celebrate Their Star Full-Back
Alozie’s club, Houston Dash, celebrated her achievement on social media, writing:
“Congratulations to Michelle Alozie for being named to the FIFPRO Women’s World XI shortlist.”
The recognition not only cements Alozie’s place among football’s elite but also underscores Nigeria’s enduring impact on the global stage.
