Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman, who plays for Atalanta in Italy, is on the brink of making history as the favourite to win the 2024 African Footballer of the Year award. This potential victory marks a significant moment for Nigerian football, as it will be the first time since 1999 that Nigerian players clinch the prestigious title back-to-back. Victor Osimhen, the current holder, ended a 25-year drought for Nigeria in 2023 after a string of near-misses.
Historically, Nigeria has enjoyed periods of dominance in the award’s history. Victor Ikpeba and Nwankwo Kanu both claimed the title in consecutive years, 1998 and 1999, respectively. Ademola Lookman’s win would not only celebrate his individual brilliance but also highlight the resurgence of Nigerian football on the global stage. His achievements this year underline his importance, making him an undeniable choice among fans and analysts.
Ademola Lookman:An Exceptional Season with Atalanta and the Super Eagles
Ademola Lookman’s exceptional performances for Atalanta in the 2023/2024 season solidified his reputation as one of Africa’s finest talents. According to Transfermarkt, Lookman contributed 11 goals and seven assists in 31 Serie A appearances, a crucial factor in Atalanta’s qualification for the UEFA Champions League. His crowning moment came in the UEFA Europa League final, where he scored a memorable hat-trick in Atalanta’s 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen, securing the club’s first-ever European title.
On the international stage, Lookman played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s journey to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast. Scoring three goals in seven matches, he was instrumental in key victories, including a brace against Cameroon in the Round of 16 and a decisive quarter-final goal against Angola. His performance earned him a spot in the official Team of the Tournament, further boosting his chances of clinching the CAF award.
Ballon d’Or Recognition and Expert Endorsements
As the only African player among the final 30 nominees for the 2024 Ballon d’Or, Ademola Lookman’s status as a frontrunner for the CAF award is well justified. His inclusion in the Ballon d’Or shortlist highlights his exceptional abilities and underscores his impact on the global stage. Reflecting on this achievement, Lookman stated, “I thought it was crazy when I saw my name in the 30 candidates for the Ballon d’Or. Being the only African player on the list makes it even more special.”
Support for Lookman’s victory extends beyond fans to fellow players and analysts. Cameroon international Flavien Enzo Boyomo, now with Osasuna, recently expressed confidence in Lookman’s chances, citing his Europa League triumph and pivotal role in Nigeria’s AFCON campaign. Fans have also taken to social media, with one enthusiast declaring, “The award should be delivered straight to Lookman’s sitting room.”
Anticipation Builds Ahead of CAF Awards
The stage is set for the 2024 CAF Awards, scheduled to take place on December 16 at the Palais des Congrès in Marrakesh, Morocco. Lookman stands out among the five nominees, which include Guinean star Samuel Guirassy (Borussia Dortmund), Simon Adingra (Ivory Coast/Brighton & Hove Albion), Achraf Hakimi (Morocco/Paris Saint-Germain), and Ronwen Williams (South Africa/Mamelodi Sundowns).
Despite stiff competition, Lookman’s achievements—both at club and international levels—make him the overwhelming favourite. His statistics are remarkable: five goals and one assist in 11 Europa League matches, coupled with standout performances at AFCON, where he created seven chances and secured one Man of the Match award. As Africa gears up for its biggest night in football, all eyes will be on Lookman to see if he can continue Nigeria’s resurgence in African football. With his remarkable club and international performances, Ademola Lookman has not just entered the conversation for African Footballer of the Year—he has effectively reshaped it.
