African Football Excitement Builds as Osimhen and Oshoala Headline CAF Player of the Year Nominations

Victor Osimhen and Asisat Oshoala Among Finalists for CAF Player of the Year Awards

The prestigious CAF Player of the Year awards have unveiled their final three nominees in both the men’s and women’s categories.

Among these standouts are Victor Osimhen, the prolific Nigerian striker, and Asisat Oshoala, the renowned women’s player.

Victor Osimhen’s Impressive Campaign

Victor Osimhen, recognized for his outstanding performance in the 2023 African Cup Nations qualification, emerges as a strong contender.

His competition includes Achraf Hakimi from Morocco and Egypt’s Mohammed Salah.

Osimhen’s remarkable contributions to Napoli’s Scudetto triumph, where he netted 26 goals, position him as a top candidate.

His success extends to winning the Golden Boot, marking a stellar season for the Nigerian striker.

Asisat Oshoala’s Record-Breaking Achievements

Asisat Oshoala, the reigning African women’s player of the year, continues to make waves.

Competing against Thembi Klagtlana of South Africa and Barbara Banda of Zambia, Oshoala’s prolific season with FC Barcelona has earned her a nomination.

The 28-year-old scored 21 goals in 28 games, guiding Barcelona to the Spanish League title.

Notably, Oshoala became the club’s leading scorer across all competitions with an impressive tally of 27 goals.

Her pivotal role in securing the UEFA Women’s Champions League and retaining the domestic championship underscores her significance in the sport.

Other Nigerian Contenders

The awards also feature other Nigerian contenders, with Andile Dlamini from South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns competing against Super Falcons player Chiamaka Nnadozie of Paris FC for the Goalkeeper of the Year (Women) title.

Deborah Abiodun, a rising star who represented Nigeria in the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2023, is vying for the Young Player of the Year (Women) award.

Despite her participation in just one of the team’s four World Cup games, the Pittsburgh Panthers midfielder has demonstrated immense potential, earning recognition as one of the continent’s brightest prospects.

Super Falcons in Contention for Women’s Team of the Year

Adding to Nigeria’s representation, the Super Falcons are contenders for the Women’s Team of the Year award, reflecting the team’s collective achievements over the past year.

Anticipation for the Awards Ceremony

The culmination of this prestigious recognition will take place at the award ceremony scheduled for December 11, 2023, in Marrakech, Morocco.

The football community eagerly awaits the announcement of the winners and celebrates the exceptional talent showcased by African players on the global stage.