Tag: Ademola Lookman

Atalanta have left Ademola Lookman behind in Italy  ahead of tonight’s Champions League clash  at  Barcelona after  the Super Eagles attacker  reportedly suffered a knee injury during training .

The unfortunate setback will force Lookman to miss the highly anticipated Champions League clash against Barcelona today and may also keep him sidelined for upcoming Serie A games.

According to Fabrizio Romano, further tests are scheduled in the coming days to determine the extent of the injury in order to ascertain the recovery plan  after  consultation with the player and the club.

The timing of Lookman’s injury is disheartening for Atalanta, coming on the eve of a high-stakes clash against Barcelona as the pivotal match can make or break Atalanta’s chances of securing automatic qualification for  the last 16 of the UCL.

Although head coach Gasperini has consistently downplayed the importance of securing automatic qualification, suggesting that the team are prepared to go through playoffs if necessary, Lookman’s absence will undoubtedly be felt.

Atalanta sit in one of the automatic qualification spots – seventh on the expanded Champions League table – and know that a victory away at Barcelona will save them the stress of going through a two-legged playoff to qualify for the last 16.

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Gasperini is likely to be deeply disappointed by Lookman’s untimely injury, especially considering his recent comments highlighting the Nigerian international’s importance to the team, stating that Lookman is irreplaceable within the squad.

The full extent of the injury is still unknown, but Atalanta will be hoping that it is a minor setback, as a more serious injury could force the club to seek a replacement in the transfer market.

The 27-year-old who was named the 2024 African Player of the Year after his exploits for both club and country last year, has scored 14 goals and provided seven assists in 27 appearances in all competitions this season.

Reigning CAF Player of the Year, Ademola Lookman, was on the scoreboard as  Atalanta swept aside Sturm Graz 5-0 in an UEFA  Champions League tie played yesterday in Bergamo.

Atalanta needed a home win to boost their second round ticket and they did deliver in style ramming home five goals without their guests scoring any.

Lookman was called upon by his coach, Gian Piero Gasperini at the start of the second half as a replacement for team’s highest scorer, Mateo Retegui and he was exceptional for Atalanta again notching his fourth goal from six games in the competition with an assist to his name.

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His form has helped propelled Atalanta to 14 points from seven games with the club needing at least a draw from the final group stage game next week.

The Nigerian has 10 goals and five assists from 18 Serie A games to ensure Atalanta are in third position on the league table.

Meanwhile in another Champions League tie,  Monaco pipped Aston Villa 1-0 to improve to 13 points from seven games.

Monaco prosecuted the tie without their Nigerian import, George Ilenikhena who is still treating a groin complaint.

Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has clinched Atalanta’s Goal of the Month award for December 2024, as voted by the club’s fans across social media platforms.

His brilliant strike during the UEFA Champions League match against Real Madrid on December 10 stood out among four finalists, earning 46% of the votes.

Lookman’s goal, a moment of pure class, came in the thrilling 3-2 defeat to Real Madrid on Matchday 6 of the Champions League.

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A precise cross-field pass from Lazar Samardžić found the Nigerian in space. With deft control, Lookman danced past Lucas Vázquez before unleashing a precise right-footed strike.

The ball nutmegged the defender and curled past Thibaut Courtois into the near post, a testament to Lookman’s composure and technical finesse.

The competition was fierce, with Charles De Ketelaere’s decisive goal against Empoli in Serie A earning second place with 38% of the votes.

De Ketelaere’s effort showcased his sharp instincts and finishingnoon prowess in Atalanta’s 3-2 victory.

Super Eagles winger, Ademola Lookman and Atalanta will square up with Bologna in the quarter final of the Coppa Italia after the draw made yesterday to that effect.

Atalanta cruised past Cesena whom they humbled 6-1 in the Round of 16 and they will face Bologna on February 4^th  with a place in the semi-final the target for both teams at the end of the two legged encounter.

Their last eight opponents, Bologna sent packing Monza 4-0 in the Round of 16 and must be at their best if they are to beat the Nerazzurri in the quarter final tie.

Read Also: GTI salutes  NFF, Lookman, others on CAF Awards

Both teams had met in the Serie A earlier in the season with the game ending in a 1-1 draw.

The winner of both two legs on aggregate will face the winner of Juventus and Empoli quarter final duel.

In another tie, Samuel Chukwueze’s Milan will slug it out with AS Roma in another quarter final tie with the winner awaiting either Inter or Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s Lazio in the semi-final.

Meanwhile, CAF reigning Player of the Year, Ademola Lookman has been included in Atalanta’s 22 man squad to face Juventus tonight at the Gewiss Stadium in Bergamo.

Gian Piero Gasperini’s men have slipped to the third spot with 42 points from 19 games and must beat fourth placed Juventus to stand any chance of closing up on the league leaders.

The English football landscape has long been a breeding ground for talented young players who go on to achieve greatness on the world stage. 

The likes of Ademola Lookman, Bukayo Saka, and Alex Iwobi are just a few examples of players who began their journeys as youngsters in England before blossoming into professional stars known across the globe.

One player who is following in the footsteps of these stars is Olumide Akinode, a versatile and dynamic footballer born on June 19, 2001, in London, England.

He is of Nigerian parentage. With a professional career spanning over four years, “Olu” as he is fondly called has showcased his adaptability and skill across multiple positions, excelling as a right wing-back, winger, and even in central midfield.

“I’ve always been driven to succeed and make a name for myself in football,” Olu said in an exclusive interview. “Growing up, I looked up to players like David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo, who not only excelled on the pitch but also built successful brands off it. I want to follow in their footsteps and create a lasting legacy in the sport.”

Olu’s football journey began in England, where he played for notable clubs such as Brentwood Town, Northwood, Coggeshall Town, and Stanway Rovers.

During his time in the competitive Isthmian and Essex Senior Leagues, he gained recognition for his consistent performances and leadership qualities.

According to the testimonies of his former coaches, Olu was always a standout player, even from a young age.

His hunger to learn and improve and his work ethic was second to none.

Olu’s efforts earned him accolades, including the prestigious Players’ Player of the Season award for the 2022/23 season.

In 2023, an opportunity to play abroad came knocking, and Olu signed with LKS Ślesin in Poland’s Artbud Group IV Liga.

“Coming to Poland was a fresh start,” Olu noted. “It was about proving to myself that I could adapt to a new culture, a new style of play, and still thrive.”

Olu continues to make an impact on the field with stellar performances, tallying two assists and a Man of the Match award within just five games.

It is not surprising Olu has quickly become fans’ favourite. One of the local sports journalists in Poland describes Olu as “a player who brings energy and precision to every match.

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Beyond his on-field exploits, Olu is also focused on building his brand.

“It’s about being more than just a footballer,” he says. “I want to inspire younger players, especially those who come from humble beginnings like I did, to chase their dreams fearlessly.”

His journey resonates with many, including aspiring footballers in England and Poland.

For many, Olu’s story reminds us that it’s not about where we start but how far we’re willing to go.

“He’s an inspiration to so many people.” affirms … a close friend

At 23, Olumide Akinode’s journey is just beginning. With his talent, determination, and ever-growing fan base, he’s poised for greater heights. Whether it’s breaking into higher leagues or representing his ancestral homeland, Nigeria, on the international stage, the future looks bright for Olu.

“For me, it’s always about progress,” Akinode says with a smile. “Every match, every training session, every new challenge—I see it as a step closer to achieving my dreams.”

Like Lookman, Saka, and Iwobi before him, Akinode is proving that humble beginnings are no barrier to global success. Instead, they are the foundation upon which greatness is built.

African Footballer of the Year Ademola Lookman is set to hit a special milestone of 100 games for his Italian side, Atalanta should he as expected ,  play any role in his club’s Supercoppa Italiana semi-final clash against Inter Milan at Al-Awwal Park in Saudi Arabia.

The Nigeria international was part of the La Dea squad that arrived in Saudi Arabia on New Year’s Eve. They are gearing up for the crucial match tonight. Atalanta aims to upset the reigning Italian champions and secure a spot in the cup final.

Lookman, who joined Atalanta in the summer of 2022 from Bundesliga side RB Leipzig for €9.3 million, has flourished under the guidance of seasoned manager Gian Piero Gasperini. In his 99 appearances across all competitions for the club, Lookman has contributed 44 goals and 24 assists, establishing himself as a key player in the squad.

This season, the 27-year-old African Footballer of the Year has maintained an impressive form, registering 12 goals and six assists in 21 matches. His remarkable performances have continued to solidify his reputation as one of the most impactful forwards in Serie A.

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Last season, Lookman played a pivotal role in Atalanta’s historic triumph, scoring a hat-trick in their 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen to clinch their first major trophy. He is now determined to guide the team toward another shot at silverware.

In addition to his contributions in cup competitions, Lookman has been instrumental in Atalanta’s domestic league campaign, as they chase their first-ever Serie A title. The Nigerian forward hopes to emulate his compatriot who led Napoli to their first league title in 33 years, and create a similar legacy for Atalanta.

Lookman will also be eager to help his side avenge the 4-0 defeat suffered against Inter earlier in the season.

He missed that match due to uncertainty surrounding his transfer at the time but now has the opportunity to make a decisive impact for La Dea in their quest for glory.

The  Year 2024 would be history  in a matter of days.  It was indeed a year  that  had  been ups and downs  for sports generally. Yet few specific events  highlighted the  state of Nigeria’s sports but the crowning glory was Ademola Lookman  being conferred  with the prestigious  African Footballer of the Year, writes TUNDE LIADI..

AFCON 2023 and Nigerian football

The year started on a subdued  note with Nigeria’s biggest international brand, the Super Eagles, at the lowest ebb following  poor performances and results throughout 2023 as  they headed out to the  delayed 2023 African Cup of Nations holding in Cote d’Ivoire.  

But against all expectations, the Eagles surprised even themselves, storming to the final of the AFCON much to the  delight of  Nigerians. Along the way they treated  the entire country to some good performances all the way to the final in Abidjan against the host’s  team, the Elephants of  Cote d’Ivoire.

The team could have won the most coveted trophy in African football at the start of the year for the fourth time but for one or two unfortunate moments during the final match that changed the tide in favour of the more determined and luckier Ivorian side who got their pound of flesh having lost to the Super Eagles earlier  in the group stage.

Worthy of note is that Nigeria did produce the  2023  Africa’s Player  after a very long time in the doldrums as Victor Osimhen’s became one of  the biggest stars  at AFCON 2023.

Yet, the championship birthed  new Nigerian heroes  in William Troost-Ekong and the revelation of the year, Ademola Lookman who shone like a million stars throughout the tournament.

For coming second, the Super Eagles were lavishly rewarded by the President Bola Tinubu-led  government  as each of the players and officials, received a National Honour, a plot of land, a house in Abuja and an undisclosed financial bonus.

Since then, until arriving at the eve of the year’s end, the Eagles have oscillated between good and poor performances, with the issue of a permanent coach for the team still unresolved and Nigeria’s chances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup hanging in the balance.

At the tail end of the year, however, the emergence of Ademola Lookman as the  2024 African Player of 2024 underlines Nigeria’s improving profile in African football . At  the CAF Awards 2024 in Marrakech, Morocco,  the Super Falcons  also walked away with  Women’s Team of the Year while goalkeeper  Chiamaka  Nnadozie  carted home for the second successive years, the Women’s Goalkeeper  of the Year prize.

The Paris Olympics Games

Nigeria went to the Paris Olympic Games with high expectations  to win few medals. After all, the country had in its fold Tobi Amusan, the fastest woman over the 100 metres hurdles in the world , as well as Ese Brume, one of the best female long jumpers . Between  the  duo,  it was presumed  that the country  would at least  grabbed a medal.

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When both failed to win any medals, and no other Nigerian athlete could raise their game and spirit to Olympian heights, the country went into depression and anger set in. It was clear that something had to give for the people to be appeased and the dwindling spirit of Nigerians in sport to be revived.

Towards the end of the year, the federal government changed the guards at the helm of Nigerian sports. The federal government abolished the Ministry of Sports Development and redeployed  Senator  John Owan Enoh  and announced the re-introduction of the National Sports Commission and put  Mallam Shehu Dikko at  the helm  of affairs.  

The Military and Nigerian Sports

The return of the military establishment to national sports consciousness is an interesting development of 2024. The African Military Games, hosted by Nigeria in October 2024 has revived a forgotten tradition where the military played a very significant role in the development of sports in the country.

Hosting the Games in Abuja also opened up new vistas of possibilities for reviving the national sports facilities in the Federal Capital Territory, reminding everyone of the successful practice of involving the military as bona fide members of the Nigerian sports architecture. The success of the games has become a blueprint for future hosting of major international events, an essential catalyst for development.

Wrestling shine  in Africa

The Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF) had six wrestlers that represented the country at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. The contingent comprised five women’s wrestlers, one male wrestler and three coaches.

The Wrestlers are: Tokyo Olympic silver medallist Blessing Oborodudu (68kg), reigning African champion Odunayo Adekuoroye (57kg), and Military world champion Hannah Reuben (76kg).

Others are reigning African champions and debutants, Esther Kolawole (62kg) and Ogunsanya Christinah (53kg), while Ashton Mutuwa completed the list in the (125kg) men’s freestyle wrestling.

The women’s wrestlers dominated at the African Senior Wrestling Championship in Egypt but they were unable to go a step higher at the Olympics with Blessing Oborodudu the only wrestler to get to the medal zone but lost the bronze medal match as she competed with injury.

It should be noted that Nigerian women’s wrestlers also excelled at the African Games held in Accra, Ghana winning all the six gold medals available in the women’s category.

Weightlifting show  promising signs

Nigeria ended  the year with the cheery news of the two medals won at the 2024 World Weightlifting Championship held in Manama, Bahrain.

Didih Onome Omolola who competed in the 55kg class narrowly missed the podium as she finished 5th on the table while Sarah Matthew who featured in the 76kg category claimed a bronze medal in snatch  and another bronze in total lift and thus earning Nigeria her two medals at the global event with 25 countries participating.

Earlier, Nigeria had two participants at the Olympics. They were Rafiatu Folashade Lawal (59kg) and Joy Ogbonne Eze (71kg). They were unable to win an Olympic medal but Lawal was the closest ending in fifth spot to assure Nigeria of a podium finish in subsequent competitions. Nigeria also dominated the Weightlifting event of the 2023 African Games winning 16 gold, 10 silver and 6 bronze medals.

Hits & misses in Athletics

Nigeria came tops at the conclusion of the athletics event at the African Games 2023 with 11 gold, six silver and four bronze medals. It was the country’s fourth best-ever performance in the history of the African Games.

The likes of Tobi Amusan, Ese Brume and Chukwuebuka Enekwechi retained their titles in the women’s 100m hurdles, women’s long jump and men’s shot put respectively.

In the men’s 400m, Chidi Okezie made history as the first Nigerian to win gold in the event in 37 years.

The likes of Ruth Usoro, Pamela Obiageri, Amaechi Chinecherem Nnamdi, also won gold in their different events.

Nigeria achieved her best-ever performance in the athletics event at the African Games in 1995 when the athletes won total of 32 medals made up of 15 gold, nine silver and eight bronze.

But it was a total disaster at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games with Nigeria’s biggest assets in the competition, Tobi Amusan and Ese Brume failing to win a medal. Amusan, who was the favourite for the 100m hurdles could not even qualify for the final of an event she was expected to win.

Paralympians  to Nigeria’s rescue

Nigeria’s unimpressive performance in 2024 also rubbed up negatively on Nigerian Paralympians who were expected to perform at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. The team only left with two gold medals, three silver and two bronze medals. The medallists are: Onyinyechi Mark (Gold), Folashade Oluwafemiayo (Gold), Esther Nworgu (Silver), Bose Omolayo (Silver), Flora Ugwunwa (Silver), Mariam Eniola Bolaji (Bronze) and Isau Ogunkunle (bronze)

Other sports and the future

With  other sports, there is really nothing huge and transformative to count in 2024 . The sports federations are still grappling with how to generate funds to run their programmes, how to elect genuine sports leaders, how to work and share responsibilities with government, and so on. These are issues that the board of the new NSC should interrogate and provide answers to in 2025.

In 2025, Nigeria must now start to look beneath the surface of thing and start to dream big again.

The rest of the world  know  the potentialities  of  Nigerian athletes and it’s now  left  for  those administering sports to harness  and nurture  these talents  in order  to yield rich harvests.

Atalanta BC will remain top of the Italian Serie A after Ademola Lookman returned from his coronation as the best African player of 2024 with a goal against Empoli yesterday. 

Lookman showed off his CAF Player of the Year prize before the kick-off of the Empoli game.

He further excited his club’s fans when he scored just before half time for Atalanta to lead 2-1.Atalanta eventually won 3-2.

They now have 40 points from 17 matches, two points ahead of second-placed Napoli.

After the Christmas holidays, they will be away at Lazio.

Read Also: ADEMOLA LOOKMAN: All round praises for the King

Meanwhile, coach  Gian Piero Gasperini has praised his side  for their resilience  after Lookman and the Charles De Ketelaere brace secured their  3-2 victory.

“We fought back against a team that came here to play good football. Of course, the two goals they scored were down to our distraction and a penalty awarded by VAR, but it was still to our credit that we won.

“The first goal we were almost distracted admiring our fans and didn’t spot the throw-in routine. I thought the penalty was extremely generous, let’s put it that way, but despite all that we showed character and the desire to win. It was a deserved victory in the end.”

Following Ademola Lookman’s coronation as the 2024 CAF Men’s Player of the Year, praise has poured in from various quarters, including the Presidency, the Senate, fellow players, world-class players, among others  David Bolarinwa  here  captures some of these accolades for the Super Eagles and Atalanta forward…

The alluring experience at the Palais des Congrès, Marrakech, Morocco on Monday night saw Nigeria and Ballon D’ Or prince rise like a phoenix to be crowned king of Africa amidst conjectural rumours of Moroccan defender Achraf Hakimi set to be pronounced winner of the prestigious award.

At the final stages, King Ademola Lookman had to compete with 2023 AFCON winner, Simon Adingra, Guinea’s Serhou Guirassy, Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi and South Africa’s goalie, Ronwen Williams to win the prestigious award.

As a result, many have eagerly shared their joy and congratulatory messages to the crowned king. Below are some of the reactions.

Ademola Lookman’s reaction to the CAF POTY Award

Ademola Lookman expressed his immense excitement and gratitude upon receiving the prestigious African Player of the Year award, highlighting the significance of the achievement in his career. He shared the joy of being recognized and awarded among the continent’s best players.

He said:  “First, I want to thank the Almighty God for all that he has been doing in my life. I want to thank the President, my teammates at both club and country; I want to thank them for their support and the love that they have given me.

“Today is a blessing to me, my family, and my nation. To be recognised as the best player in Africa is something incredible and I’m extremely proud of this.

“Just four years I failed in front of the world and fast forward four years after, I’m the best player in Africa.

“I want to say to all the young children and people watching this, don’t let your failures weigh you down to break your wings but for a fact, turn your pains to your power and you begin to fly.”

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Speaking at a press conference organised by CAF after the glamorous event, Ademola said,

“It is an incredible achievement and an incredible moment; it is special to join a list of many great players who have achieved a lot in the game. They are legends.

“There are a lot of special moments that happened this year; I can speak about a lot of good moments. But also the bad moments, when you don’t want to do gym, but you end up doing that session and that gives you more strength. The difficult moments have given me that extra strength.”

 “For us to be able to give inspiration to the young kids who want to be like us is the most important thing. If we can set a good example, they have good footsteps to follow.”

 “I am very appreciative of your love and care, and kind words in the bad moments also, not just the good moments. The people who show you love in the difficult moments are the people who you are most grateful too.”

Reactions across board

Ademola Lookman’s father expressed his immense pride and joy following his son’s victory, highlighting the qualities that have propelled him to success. He praised Lookman’s dedication, humility, and focus, while also encouraging aspiring young players to remain committed to their dreams

“I’m so proud of him because he’s a very committed player. 

He’s very humble. He doesn’t like so much publicity because he really wants to focus and that is what has taken over till this level, and I’m as proud of him as his father.

I want to thank them for their support and favourable comments. And I want to thank almighty God as well. I also want to tell the younger ones coming to focus on their dreams and they’ll get there”

Tinubu congratulates Lookman, others for winning awards.

President Bola Tinubu  in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information & Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, joined millions of Nigerians in celebrating Ademola Lookman, Chiamaka Nnadozie and the Super Falcons as a whole, describing them as worthy ambassadors for showcasing their talent and bringing honour to the country on the continental and world stage.

‘‘These athletes embody the essential Nigerian Spirit. They sign post the best in us as a nation. Let no one ever write us off. I am incredibly proud of them.

 ‘‘Thank you for making Nigeria proud and keeping our flag flying.  

 ‘‘Thank you for winning medals for Nigeria both at home and abroad. You will win more in the future,’’ the President said.

Dikko acknowledges Lookman’s greatness

National Sports Commission Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, stated that the awards will only serve as a motivation for the nation to continue to do more until it reaches the summit of the beautiful game.

“I congratulate all our winners on the night, especially Ademola Lookman and Chiamaka Nnadozie. These awards are a testament of the hard work a lot of people are putting in, and it comes at a time when Nigerian sports is experiencing a new wave of growth and rejuvenation. It will only energize us to do more and get better because we have high aspirations to reach greater heights.” He said.

Akpabio praises Lookman’s “exceptional skills”

Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio praised Ademola Lookman on receiving the award

“I wish to congratulate one of our finest footballers and an international superstar, Ademola Lookman, on his well-deserved win as the CAF Men’s Player of the Year. This prestigious award is a testament to Lookman’s hard work, dedication, and exceptional skills on the football pitch.” He said.

Reactions From Super Eagles teammates 

Ademola Lookman’s historic CAF player of the year award sparked an outpouring of support from his teammates who took to social media to celebrate his remarkable achievement. 

Praising his talent and hard work, his fellow players expressed their admiration, with many sharing heartfelt messages congratulating him for being recognized amongst Africa’s best.

Stanley Nwabali said: “We are proud of you @molalookman”; Taiwo Awoniyi said: “Adebobo, well deserved @molalookman”; Victor Boniface said: “Congrats my guy @molalookman”; Joe Aribo said, “Looku Looku @molalookman”; Ola Aina said, “This means everything !!!!! proud of you @molalookman”; William Troost-Ekong said: “Deserved my brother, we are all proud of you @molalookma”; Frank Onyeka said: “well deserved mola @molalookman”; Moses Simon said:“congratulations my Bro @molalookman”; Wilfred Ndidi said: “Adebobo”; Kelechi Iheanacho said: “Only one Adebobo”; Tosin Adarabioyo said: “My brother! THE BEST player in Africa. Well deserved; Nathan Tella said:“congrats broo”. Alex Iwobi and  Gift Orban also reacted via their social media pages.

The list seems void of Victor Osimhen, however the 2023 CAF Player of the Year winner affirmed that he has congratulated him replying to an internet user, he said: “Yes bro since yesterday, immediately after my game, sent a text around 23:49 Turkish time. him go reply me soon, cos I know say message choke for him phone wella.”

Global Recognition

The CAF Awards received significant global recognition following Ademola Lookman’s triumph, highlighting the growing prominence of African football on the international stage. 

Lookman’s victory not only underscored his outstanding performance and contribution to the sport but also brought renewed focus to the CAF Awards as a prestigious platform for celebrating African football excellence.

The event served as a reminder of the continent’s wealth of talent and its increasing influence in global football, further cementing its status as a cornerstone for honouring achievements and inspiring future generations of players.

Foreign star footballers salute  Lookman’s Greatness

Only two months ago, Ademola Lookman was the only African player on this year’s men’s Ballon d’Or shortlist, finishing 14th. This remarkable achievement placed him among the elite in world football, earning praise and congratulations from some of the greatest players in the sport.

Liverpool’s Virgil Van Dijk, Tottenham Hotspur’s Dominic Solanke, Chelsea’s Christopher Nkuku all reacted through the social media platform congratulating the African king.

Historic moment for Nigeria 

Since Rashidi Yekini and Emmanuel Amuneke won it in 1993 and 1994 respectively, Nigeria did  not record  a back to back victory of the prestigious award until Nwankwo Kanu and Victor Ikpeba did another back-to-back in 1996 and 1997.

Victor Osimhen was victorious going against two-time winner, Liverpool man from Egypt Mohamed Salah, as well as Morocco’s PSG star, Archraf Hakimi in 2023.

Scoring 26 goals to help Napoli win the Italian Serie A for the first time in 33 years, emerging top scorer in the league 22/23 season and also firing Nigeria to the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast was enough credentials to claim the best player on the continent.

In similar fashion, Ademola Lookman with 17 goals and provided 10 assists across all competitions for Atalanta during the 2023/2024 season, including a mouthwatering hat-trick in the final of the 2023-24 UEFA Europa League defeating Bayer Leverkusen 3-0 on May 22, 2024 led Atalanta to their first European title.

His poise, grit and stellar performance stood out amongst the other contenders and indeed was crowned Best Player of The Year.

No African country has produced more CAF Player of the Year winners than Nigeria.

Rashidi Yekini – 1993; Emmanuel Amunike – 1994; Kanu Nwankwo – 1996, 1999; Victor Ikpeba – 1997; Victor Osimhen – 2023; Ademola Lookman – 2024.

Lookman’s Career At A Glance

Ademola Lookman’s journey from a young talent with humble beginnings to a renowned football star is a true testament to his determination and skill. Born in England to Nigerian parents, Lookman’s early career began in the local youth ranks before he made his professional debut at Charlton Athletic. His performances in the English Championship quickly earned him a move to the Premier League with Everton in 2017, marking the first major step in his rise.

However, Ademola Lookman’s was quite filled with loan spell, after his time at Everton, Ademola Lookman moved to RB Leipzig in January 2019. He joined the German club on an initial loan deal, which was later made permanent in the summer of 2019, he was then loaned from RB Leipzig to Fulham for the 2020-2021 season. He joined the Premier League club on a season-long loan.

His brief stint at Fulham in the 2020-2021 season was a somewhat disappointing chapter in his career. After joining the Premier League club on loan from RB Leipzig, expectations were high for the talented winger. 

However, despite flashes of brilliance, Lookman struggled to make a consistent impact. His time at Fulham was marked by moments of individual skill, but he often found it difficult to integrate into the team’s overall play and contribute to their survival bid in the Premier League.

One of the most unpleasant moments during his Fulham spell was his missed penalty in a crucial match against Leeds United, a miss that drew criticism and highlighted the pressure he was under. Despite the challenges, Lookman did manage to score a few goals, showing glimpses of his potential. However, his loan spell was ultimately seen as a disappointment, with the team relegated at the end of the season.

Lookman’s career reached new heights in 2023 when he joined Atalanta in Italy’s Serie A from RB Leipzig to have a fresh start where his performances helped solidify his reputation as one of Africa’s brightest footballing stars. His dazzling displays for Atalanta were highlighted by his inclusion in the Ballon d’Or shortlist in 2024, making him the first African player to feature in the men’s list that year.

From his early days at Charlton to competing among the world’s best, Ademola Lookman’s journey has been nothing short of inspiring, marking a rise from grass to grace in the world of football.