Super Eagles winger Ademola Lookman has etched his name in African football history by clinching the prestigious 2024 CAF Player of the Year Award. The announcement was made on Monday evening in Marrakech, Morocco, during the annual CAF Awards, where Africa’s footballing elite gathered to celebrate excellence in the sport.
Lookman’s victory is a testament to an extraordinary season, highlighted by his pivotal role in Atalanta’s Europa League triumph. The Nigerian star dazzled fans worldwide with a remarkable hat-trick in the final against Bayer Leverkusen, propelling Atalanta to European glory. His stellar performances not only captured the hearts of fans but also elevated him to the ranks of Europe’s most sought-after talents.
A Historic Win for Lookman and Nigerian Football
The race for the 2024 CAF Player of the Year was fiercely competitive, with five exceptional finalists vying for the honor. Lookman’s triumph reaffirms Nigeria’s dominance in African football, marking the second consecutive year a Nigerian player has taken home the top award. Last year, Victor Osimhen won the accolade, making Lookman’s achievement a continuation of a golden era for Nigerian football.
The award is a significant milestone in Lookman’s career, further enhanced by his contributions to the Super Eagles’ journey to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final, where Nigeria finished as runners-up to Côte d’Ivoire. Despite the heartbreak in the final, Lookman’s performances were widely lauded, showcasing his resilience and consistency on the international stage.
Nigerian Football Shines at 2024 CAF Awards
It wasn’t just Lookman who brought pride to Nigeria at the 2024 CAF Awards. Chiamaka Nnadozie, the Super Falcons’ standout goalkeeper, claimed her second consecutive CAF Goalkeeper of the Year Award, cementing her status as one of the best in women’s football. Additionally, the Super Falcons were named Women’s National Team of the Year, reinforcing their dominance in African women’s football.
Speaking on Nigeria’s achievements, NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko expressed his pride:
“These awards highlight the incredible talent and hard work of our players and teams. It’s an exciting time for Nigerian sports, and these accolades will inspire us to aim even higher as we strive for global footballing excellence.”
Stellar Performances Across the Board
Lookman’s CAF accolade crowns a year where he transitioned seamlessly between club and international football. His ability to shine in high-pressure moments was evident throughout the season, whether guiding Atalanta to Europa League glory or delivering standout performances for the Super Eagles.
Meanwhile, Chiamaka Nnadozie’s consistency between the posts played a crucial role in the Super Falcons’ success. Across 28 matches, she kept 10 clean sheets, showcasing her unmatched skill and composure. The Falcons’ recognition as the Women’s National Team of the Year underscores their unity and relentless pursuit of excellence on the international stage.
The CAF Best XI also featured several Nigerian stars, a testament to the nation’s footballing prowess. In the Men’s Best XI, Lookman was joined by compatriot Victor Osimhen, while the Women’s Best XI spotlighted Rasheedat Ajibade, Asisat Oshoala, Osinachi Ohale, and Michelle Alozie.
A Bright Future for Nigerian Football
Ademola Lookman’s CAF Player of the Year Award is more than just an individual triumph—it symbolizes Nigeria’s growing prominence in world football. Alongside other national heroes like Nnadozie and the Super Falcons, Lookman’s success serves as an inspiration for the next generation of Nigerian footballers.
As Nigeria continues to shine on both continental and global stages, the future of Nigerian football looks brighter than ever. From the Super Eagles to the Super Falcons, the nation’s footballing talents are poised to leave an indelible mark on the beautiful game.