Get ready for some football fever! The Confederation of African Football (CAF) Awards 2024 are just around the corner, and Nigeria is buzzing with anticipation. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is fully supporting two of its brightest stars, Ademola Lookman and Chiamaka Nnadozie, for the prestigious Player of the Year awards. Could this be a historic night for Nigerian football?
Here’s what you need to know:
- Nigeria is vying for seven awards.
- Ademola Lookman is a strong contender for the Men’s Player of the Year award.
- Chiamaka Nnadozie is in the running for Women’s Player of the Year.
- Nnadozie is also a favorite for the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award.
- If both win, it would be the third time Nigeria has won both awards in the same year.
Lookman: The Man of the Moment?
The NFF has made it clear: they believe Ademola Lookman should be crowned African Player of the Year. They’ve stated that none of the other finalists can match his impressive record. Lookman faces tough competition from the likes of Ivory Coast’s Simon Adingra, PSG’s Achraf Hakimi, Guinea’s Serhou Guirassy, and South Africa’s Ronwen Williams. While Adingra had a strong showing in the AFCON final against Nigeria, the NFF believes Lookman’s consistency at club level gives him the edge. He currently plays for Atalanta BC, where he has been a consistent force.
Nnadozie: Aiming for a Double?
Chiamaka Nnadozie is not just competing for the Women’s Player of the Year award; she is also a strong contender for the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award. A win in both categories would be a monumental achievement. She’s up against Morocco’s Sanaa Mssoudy and Zambia’s Babra Banda for the Player of the Year award. Nnadozie plays for Paris FC, where she is a standout performer. Her skills were vital in helping Nigeria secure a spot at the Women’s Olympic Football Tournament after a 16-year absence.
A Historic Double?
If both Lookman and Nnadozie win, it will mark the third time Nigeria has swept both Player of the Year awards. The previous instances were Nwankwo Kanu and Mercy Akide-Udoh in 1999, and Victor Osimhen and Asisat Oshoala in 2023. This would be a tremendous achievement, showcasing Nigeria’s talent on the African football stage. This year’s awards are extra special as they are being held in Marrakech, Morocco on Monday.
What Makes This Year Special?
Nigeria’s success at the CAF Awards would not only boost national pride but also highlight the development of Nigerian football. The NFF’s strong backing of Lookman and Nnadozie shows that they have not only identified top talent but are also ready to support them on the biggest stages. The whole nation is waiting with bated breath to see if these two players can make history at the 2024 CAF Awards.
