By Samaila Emmanuel Bzugu
In a remarkable show of talent and dedication, four Nigerian footballers have been shortlisted for the prestigious 2024 FIFA Best Awards. Ademola Lookman, William Troost-Ekong, Asisat Oshoala, and Paul Onuachu have all been recognized for their outstanding performances in their respective categories.
Lookman, who plays for Atalanta in the Italian Serie A, has been nominated for the Best Attacker award, alongside other top players such as Vinicius Junior, Lamine Yamal, and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Troost-Ekong, Nigeria’s stand-in captain, has been shortlisted for the Best Defender award, competing against the likes of William Saliba, Manuel Akanji, and Antonio Rüdiger.
Oshoala, a record-breaking winner of the CAF Women’s Player of the Year award
Oshoala, a record-breaking winner of the CAF Women’s Player of the Year award, has been nominated for the newly-introduced Marta Award, which recognizes the best goal in women’s football. Her acrobatic goal against Benfica in the Women’s Champions League has earned her a spot among the contenders.
Onuachu, who plays for Southampton, has been shortlisted for the Puskas Award, which honors the best goal in men’s football. His impressive flick in Trabzonspor’s 2-1 win over Konyaspor has caught the attention of the FIFA panel.
The 2024 FIFA Best Awards nominees also include Lionel Messi, who has sparked debate among fans
The 2024 FIFA Best Awards nominees also include Lionel Messi, who has sparked debate among fans with his inclusion in the men’s best player category. The Argentine will compete against other top players such as Rodri, Vinicius Junior, and Kylian Mbappe.
Fans and an expert panel will vote for the winners, with the awards ceremony set to take place in the coming months.
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