Nigerian football star Ademola Lookman has been named among the final five nominees for the 2024 Confederation of African Football (CAF) Player of the Year award. This announcement reinforces Lookman’s outstanding contributions to both his club, Atalanta, and the Nigerian national team.
Despite his stellar performance, Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong did not make the final cut. The shortlist includes Cote d’Ivoire’s Simon Adingra, Guinea’s Serhou Guirassy, Moroccan defender Achraf Hakimi, and South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams. Lookman is the only Nigerian representative on the prestigious list.
CAF stated, “The awards celebrate exceptional performances in both club and national competitions, culminating in the ultimate recognition of African football excellence.”
The CAF awards also include other significant categories such as Goalkeeper of the Year, Young Player of the Year, and Coach of the Year. Nigeria’s Stanley Nwabali is a nominee for Goalkeeper of the Year, further emphasizing the country’s representation on the continental stage.
For the coveted National Team of the Year, Nigeria is shortlisted alongside South Africa, Cote d’Ivoire, DR Congo, and Sudan. Club of the Year nominees include Al Ahly, Zamalek, RS Berkane, Mamelodi Sundowns, and Espérance Sportive de Tunis.
