In a momentous achievement, Victor Osimhen, the prolific Super Eagles and Napoli striker, clinched the prestigious CAF Player of the Year award, marking a historic win as the first Nigerian male player to achieve this distinction since Kanu Nwankwo in 1999. Osimhen’s remarkable season, where he spearheaded Napoli to their first league title in 33 years, played a pivotal role in securing the coveted accolade.
The 24-year-old football sensation claimed the CAF honor during Monday’s awards ceremony held in Marrakech. Osimhen’s awe-inspiring tally of 26 goals contributed significantly to Napoli’s league triumph, a feat not witnessed since the era of legendary player Diego Maradona. Among his competitors for the award were the accomplished Moroccan full-back Achraf Hakimi and Egypt’s prolific striker, Mohammed Salah.
This accolade is the pinnacle of a stellar year for Victor Osimhen, who not only led Napoli to glory but also emerged as the top scorer in the AFCON 2023 qualifying series. His tenacious performance propelled Nigeria to secure a spot in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, further solidifying his impact on the global football stage.
In a parallel celebration of Nigerian football excellence, Asisat Oshoala and Chiamaka Nnadozie of the Super Falcons were honored with the 2023 CAF Women’s Player of the Year and Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year awards, respectively.
The Super Falcons, displaying exceptional prowess, were also recognized as the best women’s national team in Africa, marking a comprehensive acknowledgment of Nigeria’s footballing achievements on both the men and women fronts.
IMAGE: Leadership news, Arize
