By MathewsMutai
Nigerian star Victor Osimhen was named African Footballer of the Year on Monday night at the 2023 CAF Awards ceremony with his compatriot Asisat Oshoala taking home the top prize in the women’s category.
Napoli striker Osimhen beat competition from Egypt’s Liverpool forward Salah and Morocco’s Paris St Germain right-back Achraf Hakimi who were the other two final nominees.
By claiming the coveted honour, the 24-year-old became the first Nigerian winner since Nwankwo Kanu in 1999.
It capped a memorable year for the player who excelled last season for Napoli, scoring 31 goals in all competitions to help them win the Italian Serie A title after a 33-year drought.
“It’s a dream come true for me. I appreciate Nigerians for their support. I appreciate Africa for putting me on the map, encouraging me, and defending me, regardless of my shortcomings,” Osimhen said.
Barcelona forward Oshoala completed the Nigerian double by winning the women’s African Footballer of the Year for a record sixth time following previous successes in 2014, 2016, 2017, 2019 and 2022.
Morocco won National Team of the Year in the men’s category after their thrilling run to the World Cup semi-finals in Qatar, while their manager Walid Regragui won Coach of the Year.
Nigeria took home the trophy for National Team of the Year, but South Africa’s Desiree Ellis won women’s Coach of the Year for the fourth time in succession.
