CAF Awards 2024: Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman Crowned African Footballer of the Year
Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman has been crowned the 2024 African Footballer of the Year at the prestigious CAF Awards held in Marrakesh, Morocco.
The Atalanta star beat stiff competition from top African footballers, including Ivory Coast’s Simon Adingra, Guinea’s Serhou Guirassy, Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, and South Africa’s Ronwen Williams, to claim the coveted prize.
This victory marks a historic achievement for Nigeria, as Lookman becomes the second consecutive Nigerian to win the award following Victor Osimhen’s triumph in 2023, further cementing Nigeria’s status as a dominant force in African football.
Lookman’s Standout Year: From Domestic Triumphs to International Glory
At 27 years old, Ademola Lookman enjoyed a phenomenal year, delivering standout performances for both club and country.
European Glory with Atalanta
Lookman played a pivotal role in helping Atalanta secure their first-ever European trophy, making history in the UEFA Europa League final. In a stunning display, the Nigerian forward scored a memorable hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen, becoming only the sixth player in history to score a treble in a European club final—and the first to do so since 1975.
This performance not only solidified his status as one of Europe’s most lethal forwards but also made him a fan favorite and a symbol of Atalanta’s success.
AFCON Heroics with Nigeria
On the international stage, Lookman was instrumental for the Super Eagles at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) held in Ivory Coast. Scoring three vital goals, he led Nigeria to the tournament’s final, where they finished as runners-up to the hosts. Lookman’s brilliance earned him a place in the AFCON Team of the Tournament, a testament to his consistent impact on the field.
Recognition on the Global Stage
Lookman’s exceptional performances did not go unnoticed on the global stage. He was the only African player shortlisted for the 2024 Ballon d’Or, finishing in a respectable 14th place—a significant achievement for an African footballer competing against the world’s elite talents.
Domestic Form in Serie A
This season, Lookman has continued his fine form in the Serie A, scoring eight goals to help Atalanta reach the top of the table. His contributions have been key to Atalanta’s domestic success, further proving his consistency and ability to deliver at the highest level.
Barbra Banda Makes History for Zambia
In the women’s category, Orlando Pride striker Barbra Banda made history by becoming the first-ever Zambian to win the CAF Women’s Player of the Year Award. Banda’s outstanding performances on the international stage and club football saw her edge past Morocco’s Sanaa Mssoudy and Nigeria’s Chiamaka Nnadozie.
The winners were determined by a voting panel comprising CAF’s technical committee, African media professionals, players, and coaches who collectively recognized the year’s standout performances.
Barbra Banda: A Trailblazer for Zambian Football
Zambia’s Barbra Banda etched her name in history as the first Zambian woman to win the CAF Women’s Player of the Year Award. The Orlando Pride striker’s incredible year included stellar performances in international competitions, where she showcased her talent, leadership, and scoring prowess.
Banda’s victory is a landmark moment for Zambian football, inspiring young players across the nation and the continent to dream big and aim for the top.
A Night to Remember in Marrakesh
The 2024 CAF Awards ceremony celebrated the very best of African football, recognizing the achievements of players, teams, and coaches who excelled between January and October 2024.
Key highlights include:
•Men’s African Player of the Year: Ademola Lookman (Nigeria/Atalanta)
•Women’s African Player of the Year: Barbra Banda (Zambia/Orlando Pride)
•Best Goalkeeper: Chiamaka Nnadozie (Nigeria)
•Men’s Young Player of the Year: Lamine Camara (Senegal)
•Goal of the Year: Mabululu (Angola, 121,912 votes)
The event also honored Africa’s Best XI Teams in both the men’s and women’s categories, further showcasing the continent’s immense talent pool.
Nigeria’s Continued Dominance
Ademola Lookman’s win, following Victor Osimhen’s triumph in 2023, highlights Nigeria’s growing influence on the continental and global football stage. With Lookman’s performances for Atalanta and the Super Eagles setting new standards, Nigerian football continues to produce players who excel at the highest levels.
Conclusion
The 2024 CAF Awards were a night of celebration, showcasing African football excellence and inspiring future generations. Ademola Lookman’s crowning as the African Footballer of the Year and Barbra Banda’s historic triumph represent the pinnacle of individual brilliance in African football.
As Lookman’s star continues to rise, his success serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring African footballers and a testament to Nigeria’s rich football heritage.
