Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman emerged as the star of the night at the 2024 CAF Awards in Marrakech, Morocco, clinching the prestigious Men’s Player of the Year award. Lookman, who finished an impressive 14th in the Ballon d’Or rankings, edged out fellow nominees Simon Adingra (Cote d’Ivoire), Serhou Guirassy (Guinea), Achraf Hakimi (Morocco), and Ronwen Williams (South Africa).
Lookman’s Stellar Year Earns Recognition:
The 27-year-old Atalanta winger enjoyed a phenomenal year, contributing significantly to both club and country. His hat-trick in the Europa League final was a defining moment, showcasing his talent and propelling him into the ranks of Europe’s elite forwards. Lookman also played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s runners-up finish at the 2023 AFCON, adding three goals to his tally.
Double Celebration for Nigeria:
The night belonged to Nigeria, with Lookman not the only winner. The Super Falcons successfully defended their title as the CAF National Team of the Year (Women). Chiamaka Nnadozie, their reliable goalkeeper, retained the CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award, demonstrating her consistent excellence.
Zambia Makes History with Banda’s Win:
While Nigeria dominated the women’s categories, Zambia celebrated a historic win. Barbra Banda, the country’s first female CAF Player of the Year, received the award. Her impressive performance at the Olympics and her season with Orlando Pride solidified her position as Africa’s top female footballer.
A Night of Recognition:
The annual CAF ceremony honors exceptional players, coaches, and teams throughout the year. Held in Morocco, the event saw a diverse range of winners, recognizing outstanding talent across the continent.
Full List of Award Winners:
- Coach of the Year (Men): Emerse Fae (Cote d’Ivoire)
- Coach of the Year (Women): Lamia Boumehdi (Morocco)
- Goalkeeper of the Year (Men): Ronwen Williams (South Africa)
- Interclub Player of the Year (Women): Sanaa Mssoudy (Morocco)
- Interclub Player of the Year (Men): Ronwen Williams (South Africa)
- Club of the Year (Women): TP Mazembe (DR Congo)
- Club of the Year (Men): Ahly (Egypt)
- National Team of the Year (Men): Cote d’Ivoire
- Young Player of the Year (Men): Lamine Camara (Senegal)
- Young Player of the Year (Women): Doha El Madani (Morocco)
- Best Male Referees: Ibrahim Mutaz (Libya) & Assistant Elvis Noupue (Cameroon)
- Best Female Referees: Bouchra Karboubi (Morocco) & Assistant Diana Chikotesha (Zambia)
CAF XI:
- Goalkeeper: Andre Onana
- Defenders: Hakimi, Kalidou Koulibaly, Chancel Mbemba
- Midfielders: Mohammed Kudus, Sofyan Amrabat, Franck Kessie, Yves Bissouma
- Forwards: Mohamed Salah, Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman
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