Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman has been named the African Footballer of the Year, triumphing over stiff competition from Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, Ivorian Simon Adingra, Guinea’s Serhou Guirassy, and South Africa’s Ronwen Williams. The 27-year-old Nigerian joins a distinguished group of past winners, including last year’s recipient, Victor Osimhen.
Lookman’s exceptional form during the 2023 season made him the clear favorite for the award. He delivered a memorable hat-trick for Atalanta in the Europa League final, solidifying his status as one of Europe’s top forwards. The Nigerian international also played a key role in helping the Super Eagles secure second place in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, scoring three goals in the tournament.
In addition to his club and international success, Lookman was the only African player named to this year’s men’s Ballon d’Or shortlist, finishing 14th.
Zambia’s Barbra Banda Claims Women’s Award
Zambia’s Barbra Banda was honored with the Women’s African Footballer of the Year Award, becoming the first Zambian woman to win the prestigious title. Banda impressed at the 2024 Paris Olympics, scoring four goals, including a hat-trick in a group-stage loss to Australia. She also enjoyed a standout season with Orlando Pride, scoring 13 regular season goals and four more in the playoffs, helping the team win its first-ever US National Women’s Soccer League title.