Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has been shortlisted for the 2024 Ballon d’Or after a phenomenal 2023/24 season. At 26, he stands as the only African player nominated for the prestigious award, capping off a remarkable year with both club and country.
Lookman was a standout player for Nigeria, helping the Super Eagles reach the final of the Africa Cup of Nations AFCON. He finished as the team’s top scorer with three goals, securing a silver medal. His achievements extended to club football, where he played a vital role in Atalanta’s historic UEFA Europa League victory. His hat trick in the final against Bayer Leverkusen ensured Atalanta lifted their first European title and their first major trophy in over six decades.
In total, Lookman recorded 22 goals and 11 assists across all competitions during the season 17 for Atalanta and five for Nigeria. His consistent performances have earned widespread acclaim, solidifying his reputation as one of Africa’s leading footballers. This nomination marks the eighth time a Super Eagles player has been recognised in Ballon d’Or history, following Victor Osimhen’s eighth-place finish last year.
The Bet9ja promotion code for October 2024 is YOHAIG. This Bet9ja promo code gives a welcome bonus of up to ₦100,000 on your first deposit. The minimum deposit to bet is ₦100! USE the Bet9ja login signup to get started today.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Editorial
Ademola Lookman’s Ballon d’Or nomination represents a moment of pride for Nigerian football and the broader African footballing community. As fans and observers, we can only marvel at the journey that has brought him to this point. To see one of our own on the shortlist for the highest individual honour in football is a testament to Lookman’s talent, hard work, and perseverance.
But this moment is more than just a personal achievement. It speaks volumes about the quality of African footballers and their growing influence on the global stage. Lookman’s performances, particularly his heroics for Atalanta and Nigeria, have not only earned him accolades but also sent a clear message African players can and will continue to compete at the highest levels. His nomination is a reminder that with the right support and development, many more African stars can emerge and shine on the world stage.
As we celebrate Lookman’s achievement, we must also reflect on what this means for the future of African football. If we are to see more players like Lookman nominated for such honours, we must invest in grassroots development, ensure pathways to European leagues, and nurture young talent with the same determination and focus that has propelled Lookman to these heights.
His journey is an inspiration, but it should also be a call to action. Nigerian football, and African football as a whole, has so much potential waiting to be unlocked. We can and should aim to see more African players on the Ballon d’Or list in the years to come. The talent is there it’s our job to foster it.
Did You Know?
- The Ballon d’Or was first awarded in 1956, and it originally only recognised European players before being opened to players from around the world in 1995.
- George Weah of Liberia remains the only African player to have won the Ballon d’Or, claiming the prestigious award in 1995.
- Ademola Lookman was born in England and represented their youth teams before switching allegiance to play for Nigeria in 2022.
- Lookman was once a part of the Everton and RB Leipzig squads before finding success with Atalanta in Serie A.
- The Ballon d’Or is awarded based on votes from a panel of international journalists, national team coaches, and captains.
