Ademola Lookman has been named the CAF African Footballer of the Year for 2024 at a prestigious ceremony held in Marrakech, Morocco. Lookman’s remarkable season with Serie A side Atalanta and his outstanding contributions to the Nigeria national team solidified his place as Africa’s finest football talent this year. The forward’s stellar achievements were celebrated on Monday night as he joined an illustrious list of African football legends. The evening also saw Zambia’s Barbra Banda claim the women’s prize following her dominant performances in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), where she led Orlando Pride to a championship victory.
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Lookman’s Rise to the Pinnacle
Ademola Lookman, 27, played a pivotal role in Atalanta’s historic triumph during the 2023-24 season. His crowning moment came in the Europa League final, where he scored a sensational hat trick to guide the Italian club to their first-ever European trophy. This triumph marked only the second major title in Atalanta’s 117-year history, elevating Lookman as the face of their success.
On the international stage, Lookman was equally influential. The Nigerian forward netted three crucial goals during the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), helping the Super Eagles reach the tournament’s final. Though Nigeria fell short to Ivory Coast after Sebastian Haller’s late winner, Lookman’s performances were vital in propelling his nation to the brink of continental glory.
Reflecting on his journey, Lookman shared his emotions as he accepted the trophy: “This award is a blessing, to be recognised as the best player in Africa is something incredible. Four years ago my career felt down, but now I’m here as the best player in Africa. Don’t let your failures stop your dreams.”
Impressive Season for Atalanta
Lookman’s contributions for Gian Piero Gasperini’s Atalanta were nothing short of exceptional. During the 2023-24 campaign, he scored 17 goals and registered 10 assists in 45 appearances across all competitions. His consistency extended into the current season, where he has already scored 11 times in 19 matches, helping Atalanta maintain their lead at the top of the Serie A standings, two points clear of reigning champions Napoli.
Lookman’s blend of pace, technical ability, and clinical finishing has made him one of the most feared attackers in European football, earning plaudits from teammates, coaches, and fans alike.
Competition and Legacy
The Nigerian forward edged out strong contenders to claim the prestigious award. Among the nominees were Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, Borussia Dortmund’s prolific striker Serhou Guirassy, and Brighton’s Ivorian winger Simon Adingra. Lookman succeeds his compatriot Victor Osimhen, who won the award in 2023, continuing Nigeria’s dominance on the continental stage.
The CAF African Footballer of the Year has a storied history, first officially awarded in 1992. Previous winners include some of Africa’s greatest footballers, such as Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mané, Riyad Mahrez, and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. The legendary Samuel Eto’o and Yaya Touré hold the record for the most wins, each lifting the trophy four times.
Barbra Banda Takes Women’s Prize
On the women’s side, Zambia’s Barbra Banda was named the CAF Women’s Player of the Year. Banda was instrumental in Orlando Pride’s NWSL Championship-winning campaign, scoring the decisive goal in the final against Washington Spirit. Her heroics continued throughout the playoffs, where she also netted in the semifinal against Temwa Chawinga’s Kansas City Current and delivered a brace in the quarterfinals against Chicago Red Stars.
Banda’s win marks the end of Asisat Oshoala’s dominance in the category. The Nigerian star, who currently plays for Bay FC, had claimed the award in five of the last six years. Banda now adds this accolade to her BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year title, further solidifying her place among the best in the game.
A Milestone Moment for Lookman
Ademola Lookman’s recognition as Africa’s best player is a testament to his resilience, hard work, and undeniable talent. From overcoming struggles in his career to achieving success on both club and international fronts, Lookman has emerged as an inspiration for aspiring footballers worldwide. His journey serves as a powerful reminder that persistence and determination can transform setbacks into triumphs.
As the Nigerian forward looks ahead to the rest of the season with Atalanta and the Super Eagles, fans across the globe will eagerly anticipate more extraordinary performances from Africa’s newest football king.
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FAQs
Who won the CAF African Footballer of the Year 2024 award?
Ademola Lookman claimed the CAF African Footballer of the Year 2024 title after an outstanding season with Atalanta and Nigeria.
What were Ademola Lookman’s major achievements during the 2023-24 season?
Lookman scored a hat-trick in the Europa League final, helping Atalanta secure their first-ever European trophy. He also netted three goals as Nigeria reached the 2024 AFCON final.
Who were the other nominees for the CAF African Footballer of the Year award?
The other contenders included Achraf Hakimi, Ronwen Williams, Serhou Guirassy, and Simon Adingra.
Who won the CAF Women’s Player of the Year award in 2024?
Zambia’s Barbra Banda won the women’s prize after leading Orlando Pride to the NWSL Championship.
What message did Ademola Lookman share upon receiving the award?
Lookman said, “Four years ago my career felt down, but now I’m here as the best player in Africa. Don’t let your failures stop your dreams.”
