Nigerian football sensation, Ademola Lookman, has been crowned the African Player of the Year at the 2024 Confederation of African Football Awards.
The prestigious ceremony, held in Marrakech, Morocco, on Monday, December 16, 2024, celebrated the finest talents in African football, and Lookman’s achievement was the highlight of the evening.
Lookman’s remarkable year was marked by outstanding performances for both his club, Atalanta, and the Nigerian national team.
His incredible skill, pace, and finishing ability dazzled fans, and his contributions were instrumental in Atalanta’s success in Serie A and Nigeria’s qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Atalanta forward’s standout performances, including crucial goals in the UEFA Europa League and consistent brilliance in domestic competitions, solidified his position as one of Africa’s brightest stars.
His impressive displays earned him a 14th-place ranking in the 2024 Ballon d’Or standings, a testament to his growing reputation in the football world.
Lookman edged out fierce competition from top African players, including Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, Ivory Coast’s Simon Adingra, and Guinea’s Serhou Guirassy, to claim the coveted award.
His achievement was made all the more impressive by his historic hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final, which helped Atalanta stun Bayer Leverkusen 3-0.
In his acceptance speech, Lookman dedicated the award to his teammates, family, and fans, who have supported him throughout his career.
The ceremony also honored other outstanding African footballers, including Zambia’s Barbra Banda, who was named Women’s Player of the Year.
In other categories, the Super Falcons clinched the National Team of the Year award, while Chiamaka Nnadozie won the Goalkeeper of the Year award, capping off a memorable evening for African football.
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