CAF Awards 2023: Osimhen, Oshoala win men’s, women’s player of the year
Historic Triumphs: Osimhen and Oshoala Secure Top Honors at 2023 CAF Player of the Year Awards
In a groundbreaking moment, Victor Osimhen, the Super Eagles forward, has clinched the prestigious 2023 CAF Men’s Player of the Year award, marking a historic achievement for Nigerian football. The awards gala unfolded on Monday, December 11, at the Palais des Congrès, Movenpick, Marrakech, Morocco, where Osimhen emerged as the first Nigerian player to claim the African men’s player of the year title in 24 years since Nwankwo Kanu secured the accolade in 1999.
Osimhen faced stiff competition from Morocco’s Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi and Egypt’s Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah but ultimately secured victory. Notably, Kanu remains the sole Nigerian player to have won the award more than once, accomplishing the feat in 1996 and 1999.
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The 24-year-old football sensation showcased stellar performances for Napoli over the past year, contributing significantly to the Serie A club’s first league victory in 33 years. Osimhen netted an impressive 26 goals in 32 Serie A games last season and totaled 31 goals across all competitions. His outstanding achievements earned him recognition as the Serie A Best Striker, Paolo Rossi, and Italian Footballers’ Association Player of The Year.
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Osimhen’s stellar form extended beyond domestic leagues, earning him a nomination for the Ballon d’Or and placing him in contention for the prestigious Globe Soccer award.
In a parallel feat, Super Falcons striker Asisat Oshoala added another chapter to her illustrious career by securing the Women’s CAF Player of the Year. Oshoala played a pivotal role in Barcelona’s triumph in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, contributing significantly to the Catalan team’s unbeaten league victory.
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As both Osimhen and Oshoala bask in the glory of their remarkable achievements, their victories resonate as significant milestones in Nigerian football, underscoring the nation’s talent and prowess on the continental stage.
