From Abedi Pele to Victor Osimhen: The African Football Legends Crowned Since 1992

From Abedi Pele to Victor Osimhen: The African Football Legends Crowned Since 1992

Hassan Abdulsalam 09:30 - 13.12.2023

Since 1992, CAF has awarded the prestigious African Footballer of the Year title to some of the continent's most talented and iconic players.

The CAF Player of the Year award is the ultimate accolade, honoring the continent's finest talents since its inauguration in 1992. 

Let's dive into the history of this prestigious award, celebrating the players who have dazzled on the football stage and etched their names in the annals of African football history.

Since 1992, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has awarded the prestigious African Footballer of the Year title to some of the continent's most talented and iconic players. 

This award recognizes the outstanding achievements of African footballers on the world stage, and it has been bestowed upon some of the greatest names in the history of the game.

Victor Osimhen is the new king of African football.
Victor Osimhen is the new king of African football. (Photo Credit: CAF/X) Victor Osimhen is the new king of African football.

The Early Years (1992-2000)

The inaugural award in 1992 went to Ghanaian legend Abedi Pele, who was at the peak of his powers at the time. He had just helped Marseille win the European Cup, and his dazzling skills and leadership made him a worthy first recipient.

The following years saw a string of dominant winners, including George Weah of Liberia (1994, 1995), Daniel Amokachi of Nigeria (1996), and Nwankwo Kanu of Nigeria (1999). 

These players were not only stars in their own right, but they also helped to put African football on the map and inspire a generation of young players.

The Rise of the Superstars (2001-2010)

The new millennium saw the emergence of a new breed of African superstars. Samuel Eto'o of Cameroon was the defining player of this era, winning the award a record four times (2003, 2004, 2005, 2010). 

Other notable winners during this period include Didier Drogba of Ivory Coast (2006, 2009), Yaya Touré of Ivory Coast (2011, 2012, 2013, 2014), and Riyad Mahrez of Algeria (2016).

Yaya Touré wins CAF awards
Yaya Touré wins CAF awards Yaya Touré wins CAF awards

These players were not only successful at the club level, but they also led their national teams to continental and international glory. 

Eto'o was instrumental in Cameroon's victories at the Africa Cup of Nations in 2000 and 2002, while Drogba captained Ivory Coast to the Africa Cup of Nations title in 2015.

The New Generation (2011-Present)

In recent years, we have seen the rise of a new generation of African stars, led by the likes of Mohamed Salah of Egypt (2017, 2018), Sadio Mané of Senegal (2019, 2022), and Victor Osimhen of Nigeria (2023). 

These players are carrying the torch for African football and proving that the continent continues to produce world-class talent.

The Future of African Football

The future of African football is bright. With a growing pool of talented young players and a continued commitment to development, the continent is poised to produce even more legends in the years to come. 

The African Footballer of the Year award is a testament to the rich history and talent of African football, and it is sure to continue to inspire and motivate future generations of players.

The King and Queen of African football, Osimhen and Oshoala.
The King and Queen of African football, Osimhen and Oshoala. (Photo Credit: CAF/X)

The rise of Victor Osimhen

In a stunning showcase of football excellence, Nigerian sensation Victor Osimhen has clinched the esteemed 2023 CAF Player of the Year award, a testament to his phenomenal season with Serie A club Napoli. 

This achievement is a significant moment for Nigerian football, marking the first time a player from the nation has seized the award since the legendary Nwankwo Kanu in 1999.

The CAF Player of the Year accolade, revamped in 1992, has been a barometer for football greatness in Africa, celebrating the continent's finest talents. The illustrious list of winners over the years features some of the most iconic names in African football.

Osimhen
Victor Osimhen, at 24, Wins CAF Awards After 24 Years since Kanu. (Photo Credit: CAF/X) Osimhen

Leading the pack with four wins each, Samuel Eto’o and Yaya Toure stand as towering figures in the award's history, their names synonymous with African footballing excellence. Their dominance in the award's roll of honor underscores the rich legacy they've left in the sport.

Here's a quick rundown of the CAF Player of the Year winners since its inception in the current format in 1992:

  • Victor Osimhen (2023): The latest sensation to fetch his name in history. 
  • Sadio Mane (2022 & 2019): The Senegalese star's brilliance earned him two titles. 
  • Mohamed Salah (2018 & 2017): The Egyptian maestro's consecutive wins highlighted his global impact. 
  • Riyad Mahrez (2016): Algeria's pride, Mahrez's win showcased his unique flair. 
  • Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (2015): Gabon's golden boy, Aubameyang's win was a moment of pride for his nation. 
  •  Yaya Toure (2014, 2013, 2012, 2011): A four-time winner, Toure's dominance was a testament to his midfield mastery. 
  • Samuel Eto’o (2010, 2005, 2004, 2003): Eto’o's record wins solidified his status as an African football legend. 
  • Didier Drogba (2009 & 2006): The Ivorian powerhouse, Drogba's wins were a reflection of his commanding presence. 
  •  Emmanuel Adebayor (2008): Togo's shining star, Adebayor's win put his country on the footballing map. 
  • Frederic Kanoute (2007): Mali's hero, Kanoute's triumph was a story of inspiration. 
  • El Hadji Diouf (2002 & 2001): Senegal's charismatic forward, Diouf's back-to-back wins were a testament to his relentless drive. 
  •  Patrick M’Boma (2000): Cameroon's striking force, M’Boma's win was a moment of glory. 
  •  Nwankwo Kanu (1999 & 1996): Nigeria's iconic figure, Kanu's wins were symbols of his enduring talent. 
  •  Mustapha Hadji (1998): Morocco's midfield magician, Hadji's triumph was a moment of Moroccan pride. 
  • Victor Ikpeba (1997): Another Nigerian star, Ikpeba's win highlighted the country's rich talent pool. 
  • George Weah (1995): The only African Ballon d'Or winner, Weah's win was historic. 
  • Emmanuel Amunike (1994): Nigeria's gifted winger, Amunike's win was a testament to his skill and grace on the field.

Conclusion

This illustrious list not only celebrates individual brilliance but also represents the evolving landscape of African football, where talent, hard work, and passion converge to produce some of the world's most exciting football talents  

Tags: