)
Nigeria has won the last two CAF Player of the Year awards after Ademola Lookman took over from Victor Osimhen as Africa's King.
Nigeria has once again asserted its dominance in African football, with Ademola Lookman being named the 2024 CAF Player of the Year, following in the footsteps of teammate Victor Osimhen.
This victory sees Lookman make history as the sixth Nigerian to lift this prestigious award, extending the country's lead as the nation with the most CAF Player of the Year awards.
)
23:15 - 17.12.2024
Inside info? Ex-Super Eagles coach names surprise club Victor Osimhen could join
Former Super Eagles head coach weighed in on Victor Osimhen's transfer situation.
PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Soccer News in Nigeria from Pulse Sports
)
13:22 - 18.12.2024
‘He doesn't like publicity’ - Lookman’s dad speaks highly of CAF POTY winner, thanks Nigerians for support
Ademola Lookman’s dad has claimed that he is proud of his son’s achievement and thanks fans for their support.
Lookman takes reigns from Osimhen
The announcement came during a lavish ceremony held in Marrakech, Morocco, where Lookman emerged the winner over strong contenders, including home favourite Achraf Hakimi of Morocco.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) took to its social media platforms to celebrate this achievement, emphasising Nigeria's remarkable record.
)
What CAF said
“Five different winners? Make that six. Ademola extends Naija's lead with the most Men's Player of the Year winners,” CAF posted.
In praising Lookman, CAF highlighted his exceptional performances throughout the year, stating, “When the stars align, they spell 𝐀𝐝𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐥𝐚 𝐋𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐦𝐚𝐧. Ladies and gentlemen, your Men’s Player of the Year!”
Lookman's win adds him to an elite list of Nigerian football legends who have previously claimed this honour, including Rashidi Yekini, Nwankwo Kanu, Emmanuel Amuneke, and Victor Ikpeba.
What it means for Nigeria
With this latest accolade, Nigeria has now won the CAF Player of the Year award a total of seven times, surpassing Côte d’Ivoire, which has six wins.
The significance of this achievement is underscored by Nigeria's consistent performance in African football.
The country is notable for being the only one to win the CAF Player of the Year award in two consecutive years on three occasions with different players: Rashidi Yekini (1993), Emmanuel Amuneke (1994), Nwankwo Kanu (1996 and 1999), Victor Ikpeba (1997), Victor Osimhen (2023), and now Ademola Lookman (2024).
Lookman’s victory came after a year filled with remarkable achievements that include leading Nigeria to the finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and securing Atalanta's first European trophy with a stunning hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final.
This latest triumph not only shows Lookman's talent but also reinforces Nigeria's status as a powerhouse in African football.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)