Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has claimed the prestigious title of 2024 CAF Men’s Player of the Year, succeeding his Nigerian compatriot, Victor Osimhen. The 27-year-old Atalanta star was honored at the Palais des Congrès in Marrakech, Morocco, on December 16, solidifying his place as one of Africa’s finest football talents.
Lookman edged out tough competition from Ivory Coast’s Simon Adingra, PSG’s Achraf Hakimi, Guinea’s Serhou Guirassy, and South Africa’s Ronwen Williams to clinch the award. Football fans and analysts alike had tipped him as the favorite, and his stellar performances throughout the year proved them right.
The Atalanta winger had an unforgettable 2023-2024 season, highlighted by his historic hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final that led Atalanta to their first-ever European trophy. His 17 goals and 10 assists last season were pivotal, and he has continued his impressive form this season with 11 goals and 5 assists in 19 games.
At the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Lookman played a crucial role in Nigeria’s journey to the final, finishing as one of the tournament’s top scorers. His brace in the Round of 16, a decisive winner in the quarterfinals, and inclusion in the AFCON Team of the Tournament showcased his brilliance on the continental stage.
Lookman’s accomplishments in 2024 include:
• Over 20 Man of the Match awards.
• Reaching the AFCON final with Nigeria.
• Scoring a hat-trick in the Europa League final.
• Being the only African player nominated for the 2024 Ballon d’Or.
With this victory, Ademola Lookman has not only succeeded Victor Osimhen as Africa’s top player but also solidified Nigeria’s dominance in African football.
