Faith Nyasuguta
In a star-studded ceremony held in Marrakech, Morocco, Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman and Zambia’s Barbra Banda were crowned the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) top players of the year for 2024. The event celebrated the outstanding achievements of African footballers over the past year, highlighting their contributions to the sport both on and off the field.
Ademola Lookman’s Stellar Year
Ademola Lookman, the 27-year-old forward for Italian club Atalanta, was named the CAF Men’s Player of the Year. Lookman had a phenomenal season, delivering a stunning hat-trick in the Europa League final that helped his club secure its first European trophy.
His performance in the final was a standout moment, cementing his reputation as one of Europe’s elite forwards. Lookman also played a crucial role in Nigeria’s Super Eagles, scoring three goals in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and helping the team to a second-place finish. His achievements earned him a spot on the men’s Ballon d’Or shortlist, where he finished 14th.
Barbra Banda’s Historic Win
Barbra Banda, the 24-year-old striker for Orlando Pride, made history by becoming the first Zambian to win the CAF Women’s Player of the Year award. Banda had an exceptional year, scoring 13 goals in the regular season and four in the playoffs for Orlando Pride, leading the team to its first US National Women’s Soccer League title. Her performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics was equally impressive, with four goals, including a hat-trick in a group-stage match against Australia.
Banda’s achievements also earned her the BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year award and a place in the FIFPRO Women’s World 11.
Other Notable Winners
South Africa’s Ronwen Williams was another standout performer, winning both the Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year and Men’s Interclub Player of the Year awards. Williams’ spectacular penalty saves in the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final shootout against Cape Verde were particularly memorable. Uganda’s Chiamaka Nnadozie claimed the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award for the second consecutive year, following another outstanding season with Paris FC.
Celebrating African Football
The CAF Awards ceremony was a celebration of the incredible growth and development of football in Africa. The event featured performances by top African artists, including Tanzanian superstar Diamond Platnumz and Moroccan singer Dystinct. The night also honored Cameroon’s President Paul Biya with an outstanding achievement award for his contributions to the sport.
The 2024 CAF Awards highlighted the exceptional talent and dedication of African footballers, showcasing their impact on the sport both locally and internationally. Ademola Lookman and Barbra Banda’s wins are a testament to their hard work and excellence, inspiring future generations of African athletes.
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