AFRICAN FOOTBALL SHINES: LOOKMAN, BANDA AND WILLIAMS HEADLINE 2024 CAF AWARDS

Written by: Floyd Nkanyane

In a dazzling celebration of continental football excellence, the 2024 CAF Awards illuminated the extraordinary talents that continue to put African football on the global map. Held in the vibrant city of Marrakech, Morocco, the ceremony was a testament to the remarkable growth and diversity of football across the African continent. Without wasting any precious moment, let’s Flo Report the ceremony shall we?

A Nigerian Night Out

Nigeria emerged as the standout nation of the evening, with Ademola Lookman clinching the Men’s Player of the Year award. Following in the footsteps of Victor Osimhen, Lookman’s victory marks the first time in nearly three decades that Nigeria has secured back-to-back wins in this prestigious category. The Atalanta forward’s exceptional performance throughout the year has firmly established him as a rising star in world football.

Complementing Lookman’s success, Chiamaka Nnadozie renewed her claim as Africa’s top female goalkeeper, winning the award for the second consecutive year. Her outstanding performances for Paris FC have made her a beacon of excellence in women’s football.

Barbara Banda: A Historical Achievement

Perhaps the most inspiring story of the night belonged to Zambia’s Barbara Banda. Her remarkable year saw her become the first African player to be included in the FIFPRO Women’s World 11. Banda’s hat-trick at the Paris Olympics  (her third such achievement in Olympic football) set a new record and cemented her status as one of the continent’s greatest players.

Her success with Orlando Pride in the NWSL, including scoring the decisive goal in the championship final, further underscored her exceptional talent and global impact.

Ronwen Williams: A Double Triumph

South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams enjoyed a night to remember, securing two major awards. His heroic performances, particularly his four crucial penalty saves during the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final against Cape Verde, captured the imagination of football fans across the continent. Williams was instrumental in Mamelodi Sundowns’ record-breaking season, during which the team conceded just 11 goals in 30 league matches.

Beyond Individual Achievements

The awards celebrated more than just individual brilliance. Côte d’Ivoire’s remarkable Africa Cup of Nations victory saw coach Emerse Fae crowned Coach of the Year, while the national team was named Team of the Year. In the women’s category, Nigeria’s Super Falcons continued their legacy of excellence.

A Broader Vision, Perhaps

CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe’s commitment to comprehensive recognition was evident. This year’s awards went beyond players, honoring match officials and highlighting the depth of talent across all aspects of African football. Mutaz Ibrahim of Libya was named Men’s Referee of the Year, while Elvis Guy Noupue Nguegoue of Cameroon was awarded Men’s Assistant Referee of the Year. Morocco’s Bouchra Karboubi won the Women’s Referee of the Year and Zambia’s Diana Chikotesha the Women’s Assistant Referee of the Year.

The Goal of the Year (voted by fans) went to Angola’s Mabululu, for an audacious strike against Namibia at the AFCON tournament. A reminder of the creativity and flair that defines African football.

Looking On From a FLO Perspective

The 2024 CAF Awards ceremony was more than a celebration of past achievements. It was a powerful statement about the present and the future of African football. From Lookman’s clinical finishing to Banda’s record-breaking performances, from Williams’ goalkeeping heroics to the success of national teams, the continent continues to produce world-class talent that captures global attention.

As the football world looks ahead, one thing is clear: African football is not just growing – it’s been thriving, innovating, and inspiring millions around the globe.

CONFEDERATION OF AFRICAN FOOTBALL (CAF) 2024 AWARD WINNERS:

Men

Player of the Year: Ademola Lookman (NGR)

Inter-Club Player of the Year: Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns/RSA)

Goalkeeper of the Year: Ronwen Williams (RSA)

Young Player of the Year: Lamine Camara (SEN)

Coach of the Year: Emerse Fae (CIV)

National Team of the Year: Ivory Coast

Club of the Year: Al Ahly (EGY)

Best XI: Andre Onana (CMR); Achraf Hakimi (MAR), Kalidou Koulibaly (SEN), Chancel Mbemba (COD); Mohammed Kudus (GHA), Sofyan Amrabat (MAR), Franck Kessie (CIV), Yves Bissouma (MLI); Mohamed Salah (EGY), Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman (both NGR)

Women

Player of the Year: Barbara Banda (ZAM)

Club Player of the Year: Sanaa Mssoudy (FAR Rabat/MAR)

Goalkeeper of the Year: Chiamaka Nnadozie (NGR)

Young Player of the Year: Doha El Madani (MAR)

Coach of the Year: Lamia Boumehdi (TP Mazembe/COD)

National Team of the Year: Nigeria

Club of the Year: TP Mazembe (COD)

Best XI: Andile Dlamini (RSA); Michelle Alozie, Osinachi Ohale (both NGR), Lebohang Ramalepe, Karabo Dlamini; Linda Motlhalo (all RSA), Rasheedat Ajibade (NGR), Ghizlane Chebbak (MAR); Barbara Banda (ZAM), Asisat Oshoala (NGR), Tabitha Chawinga (MAW)