Boniface, Osimhen Misses Out as Lookman, Ekong Make CAF Player of the Year Shortlist

The Confederation of African Football has announced its highly anticipated shortlist for the 2024 CAF Player of the Year award.

The list includes Nigerian players Ademola Lookman and William Troost-Ekong among the prominent finalists in Africa.

However, a statement by CAF on Thursday, October 24, 2024, via X (previously Twitter) revealed that in-form scorer Victor Boniface and reigning CAF Player lf The Year, Victor Osimhen were noticeably omitted from the final list.

The ten-man shortlist included several North African players, including Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi and Sofiane Rahimi, as well as Algeria’s Amine Gouiri.

Ivory Coast’s Simon Adingra also makes the cut after a standout club season, while DR Congo’s Chancel Mbemba and Guinea’s Serhou Guirassy have earned their spots after great performances this year.

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Burkina Faso’s Edmond Tapsoba and South Africa’s Ronwen Williams round out the list, demonstrating the diversity of skill across the African continent.

The nominees, who represent various prominent European and African leagues, demonstrate African football’s growing global importance.

This year’s selection includes both established football players and young talent, all of whom have been recognized for their outstanding performances and consistency throughout 2024.

The CAF Awards 2024 will decide who will succeed Osimhen as Africa’s top player, with the gala honoring the continent’s best football talent.

Super Eagles and Atalanta wideman, Ademola Lookman is highly tipped to win the gong after a stellar season with the Europa League winners and guiding Nigeria to a second place finish at the 2024 AFCON in January.