The 2024 CAF Awards held in Marrakech, Nigeria's Ademola Lookman was crowned the African Player of the Year, edging out local favorite Achraf Hakimi.
The decision has sparked widespread discontent among Moroccan fans, who had high hopes for Hakimi, especially with the ceremony taking place on home soil.
The atmosphere inside the Conference Palace became charged as Lookman's name was announced. Many Moroccans in attendance expressed their frustration by chanting Hakimi's name, clearly showing their discontent with the outcome.
Reports indicate that some fans even staged protests outside the venue, accusing the Confederation of African Football (CAF) of bias. Security measures were heightened to manage the situation, and CAF President Patrice Motsepe reportedly had to leave the building through a back exit to avoid the angry crowd.
Sports analyst Mohamed El Hajoui voiced his disappointment, questioning the criteria used to determine the winner. "If we compare this to last year, even Bounou had an award for the same European competition and made a bigger impact at the national level contributing to the first-ever African team reaching the World Cup semi-finals," he stated per Moroccan outlet Morocco World News.
Despite the uproar, Lookman's victory is a milestone for Nigerian football, marking a consecutive win for Nigeria after Victor Osimhen's triumph in 2023.
The Atalanta forward's contributions for both club and country have been substantial, leading Nigeria to the finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and securing Atalanta's first European trophy.
Lookman's father expressed pride in his son's achievement, thanking fans for their support.
Meanwhile, the sentiments of frustration were echoed throughout social media, where many Moroccans expressed their discontent with CAF's decision. However, they remain proud of Hakimi's accomplishments and contributions to both club and country.
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