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The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is set to host the prestigious CAF Awards 2024 tonight at the Palais des Congrès in Marrakech. This annual event recognizes and celebrates the outstanding achievements of players, coaches, and teams across the African continent over the past year.
This year’s awards feature an impressive lineup of nominees across various categories, highlighting the rich talent and competitive spirit in African football. The ceremony will be co-hosted by renowned sports broadcaster Kate Scott and veteran Moroccan journalist Jalal Bouzrara, promising an evening filled with excitement and celebration.
Men’s Player of the Year Nominees
The marquee award of the evening, the CAF Men’s Player of the Year, showcases five exceptional talents:
- Ademola Lookman (Nigeria / Atalanta): Lookman has emerged as a frontrunner for this prestigious accolade following a stellar year. He played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s journey to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), scoring three goals and providing one assist. Additionally, Lookman shone in club football, netting a historic hat-trick in Atalanta’s UEFA Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen.
- Achraf Hakimi (Morocco / Paris Saint-Germain): Known for his explosive pace and technical ability, Hakimi helped PSG secure a domestic double this season. His contributions were crucial during Morocco’s impressive run at the 2023 AFCON and their bronze medal finish at the Paris Olympic Games.
- Simon Adingra (Ivory Coast / Brighton & Hove Albion): Adingra was instrumental in Ivory Coast’s AFCON triumph, scoring vital goals and earning the tournament’s Best Young Player award. His performances in the Premier League have also solidified his reputation as one of Africa’s brightest stars.
- Serhou Guirassy (Guinea / Stuttgart): Despite facing challenges with his club this season, Guirassy’s talent remains undeniable. His performances during AFCON qualifying showcased his potential as a key player for Guinea.
- Ronwen Williams (South Africa / Mamelodi Sundowns): The experienced goalkeeper played a crucial role in South Africa’s bronze medal finish at AFCON 2023, making several key saves that earned him recognition on the continental stage.
Women’s Player of the Year Nominees
In the CAF Women’s Player of the Year category, three standout players are vying for recognition:
- Chiamaka Nnadozie (Nigeria / Paris FC): Nnadozie has had an exceptional year, helping Nigeria qualify for both the Olympic Games and AFCON. Her performances have been critical for both club and country, making her a strong contender for this prestigious award.
- Barbra Banda (Zambia / Orlando Pride): Banda continues to impress with her goal-scoring prowess and leadership on the field. Her contributions have been vital for Zambia’s national team and her club.
- Sanaâ Mssoudy (Morocco / AS FAR): Mssoudy has been a standout performer in both domestic and international competitions, showcasing her skills as a key player for Morocco.
Goalkeeper of the Year Nominees
The Goalkeeper of the Year category features:
- Andre Onana (Cameroon / Manchester United): Onana has established himself as a key player for Manchester United since joining from Inter Milan, showcasing his shot-stopping abilities at both club and international levels.
- Ronwen Williams (South Africa / Mamelodi Sundowns): As previously mentioned, Williams’ performances at AFCON were critical to South Africa’s success.
- Yahia Fofana (Cote d’Ivoire / Angers SCO): Fofana played every minute during Cote d’Ivoire’s AFCON victory on home soil, cementing his status as one of Africa’s top goalkeepers.
National Teams Recognition
Both Nigeria’s Super Eagles and Super Falcons have been nominated for their respective categories as Men’s National Team of the Year and Women’s National Team of the Year. Their impressive performances over the past year have solidified their places among Africa’s elite teams.
The CAF Awards not only celebrate individual brilliance but also highlight teamwork and dedication across African football. As fans eagerly await tonight’s ceremony, it promises to be an unforgettable celebration of talent, perseverance, and passion that defines African football.
