The final shortlist for the 2024 CAF African Player of the Year Award has been released, with two Nigerian footballers making the cut: William Troost-Ekong and Ademola Lookman. This is in preparation for probably the second straight year of Nigeria claiming the award, following Victor Osimhen’s historic win last year, the first Nigerian to do so in 25 years.
Lookman Favorites for the Award
Ademola Lookman is highly tipped to be crowned this year’s CAF Player of the Year award after a great season with both club and country. The Atalanta winger was recently the hero in the final of the Europa League as he scored a stunning hat-trick to help the Italian side win their first ever European trophy. His contribution to Nigeria’s run to the AFCON final, where the Super Eagles finished as runners-up, further cemented his status as one of the best talents on the continent.
Lookman’s outstanding performances throughout the year have also seen him receive a nomination for the Ballon d’Or, putting him among the elite and placing him in strong contention to go the way of Osimhen as Africa’s best player.
Troost-Ekong’s Stellar Year Earns Him Recognition
Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong is another name on the shortlist alongside Lookman after an exceptional year that saw him wind up as MVP of the 2023 AFCON. His leadership and defensive skills led Nigeria to the final, and his two important goals in the tournament proved vital in their successful campaign. Troost-Ekong’s nomination marks a well-deserved acknowledgment of his performances for club and country.
Competition for the Prize
Troost-Ekong and Lookman face stiff competition, the likes of Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, Borussia Dortmund’s Serhou Guirassy, and South Africa’s Ronwen Williams, among others. But Nigerian fans are hopeful that their stars will bring home the award anew.
