Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has been crowned African Player of the Year, beating fellow nominees Achraf Hakimi, Simon Adingra, Serhou Guirassy, and Ronwen Williams. The award recognises Lookman’s stellar 2023/2024 season, during which he netted 17 goals for Atalanta, including a remarkable hat-trick in the Europa League final that secured the title against Bayer Leverkusen.
Lookman played a key role on the international stage in Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations AFCON campaign, scoring three goals as Nigeria reached the final, where they narrowly lost 2-1 to Ivory Coast. This season, he has already contributed 11 goals and five assists in 19 matches, further proving his consistency and importance for club and country.
Editorial
Ademola Lookman’s journey to being crowned Africa’s best player is an inspiring story of hard work, resilience, and sheer talent. His Europa League heroics and consistent club performances reflect his ability to deliver on the grandest stages. For Nigerian football, this award reinforces the nation’s position as a powerhouse in African football and a producer of world class talent.
Lookman’s recognition also highlights the importance of perseverance. From overcoming setbacks earlier in his career to shining for both Atalanta and the Super Eagles, his journey serves as a motivation for aspiring young African players. We celebrate Lookman’s success and hope it inspires continued investment in developing African football talent.
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Did You Know?
- Ademola Lookman’s hat trick in the Europa League final made him the first Nigerian to achieve this feat in a major European final.
- Lookman contributed to Nigeria’s run to the AFCON final, scoring three goals in the tournament.
- He edged out Achraf Hakimi, who captained Morocco in the 2023 AFCON, and Simon Adingra, who helped Ivory Coast win the title.
- Lookman has scored 11 goals and provided five assists in 19 matches this season for Atalanta.
- Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen won the previous CAF Player of the Year award, marking back to back wins for Nigerian players.
