Ademola Lookman, the dynamic striker for Nigeria’s Super Eagles, has been honored with the prestigious title of ‘Best African International Footballer’ at the Ghana Football Awards. This recognition comes in light of his outstanding performances both at the club level with Serie A team Atalanta, and internationally during the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023 held in Côte d’Ivoire.
At just 20 years old, Lookman’s impact on the field has been profound. During the AFCON tournament, he played in all seven matches for Nigeria, scoring three crucial goals that helped propel the Super Eagles to a commendable silver finish. His agility and precision were pivotal in Nigeria’s journey through the tournament and caught the eye of many.
His club achievements have been equally impressive. Lookman was a key player in Atalanta’s successful UEFA Europa League campaign, where he scored a memorable hat-trick in the final, leading his team to a 3-0 victory against Bayer Leverkusen. This performance not only highlighted his skills and consistency but also solidified his reputation as a critical player in high-pressure games.
The competition for the award was fierce, with Lookman edging out notable contenders such as Victor Osimhen from Napoli and Edmund Tapsoba from Burkina Faso. His consistent performance throughout the season and his instrumental role in both his club’s and country’s successes this year were significant factors in clinching the award.
Furthermore, Lookman’s stellar play has attracted the attention of several top European clubs, with rumors of interest from teams in Saudi Arabia indicating his rising stock in global football.
In addition to Lookman’s accolades, the Ghana Football Awards ceremony also recognized Mohammed Kudus of West Ham United. The Ghanaian international was a double award winner, securing the ‘Ghana Player of the Year’ for his impressive stint in England and his performances at AFCON 2023. Kudus’ goal against Freiburg in the UEFA Europa League was also celebrated, earning him the ‘Best Goal of the Night’ award.
These accolades for both players underscore their exceptional talent and contributions to their teams and national squads. As the football world watches, players like Lookman and Kudus continue to set the bar high with their skill, dedication, and passion for the game, promising more thrilling performances in the seasons to come.
See the video of the awards here:
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