The 2024 Confederation of African Football (CAF) Awards, held on December 16th at the illustrious Palais des Congrès in Marrakech, Morocco, celebrated the pinnacle of African football talent.
This prestigious event, which has become a hallmark of excellence in African sports, brought together the continent's finest players, coaches, and teams to honor their outstanding achievements over the past year.
Ademola Lookman, the Nigerian forward who plays for Atalanta, emerged as the star of the evening by clinching the coveted CAF Player of the Year (Men) award. Lookman's exceptional performances throughout the season, both for his club and the Nigerian national team, have been nothing short of spectacular.
His ability to inspire Atalanta to European success and lead the Super Eagles to the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final was instrumental in earning him this accolade. Lookman faced stiff competition from other top contenders, including Simon Adingra from Ivory Coast, Guinea's Serhou Guirassy, Achraf Hakimi of Morocco, and South Africa's Ronwen Williams.
In the women's category, Zambia's Barbra Banda was honored with the CAF Player of the Year (Women) award. Banda, who plays for Orlando Pride, has been a beacon of excellence, showcasing her leadership and goal-scoring prowess. Her contributions have massively elevated the Copper Queens and her club to new heights, making her a deserving recipient of this prestigious award.
South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, representing Mamelodi Sundowns, was another standout winner, taking home the CAF Goalkeeper of the Year (Men) award. Williams' remarkable skills between the posts have been pivotal for both his club and the national team, solidifying his reputation as one of Africa's top goalkeepers.
The awards ceremony also recognized other notable talents across various categories. Chiamaka Nnadozie from Nigeria, playing for Paris FC, was named the CAF Goalkeeper of the Year (Women), while Senegal's Lamine Camara, who plays for AS Monaco, was awarded the CAF Young Player of the Year (Men). In the women's young player category, Doha El Madani from Morocco, representing AS FAR, took the honors.
The CAF Interclub Player of the Year awards went to Ronwen Williams for the men's category and Sanaâ Mssoudy from Morocco, playing for AS FAR, for the women's category. These awards highlight the exceptional talent and dedication of players competing in African club competitions.
Coaching excellence was also celebrated, with Emerse Fae from Cote d’Ivoire being named the CAF Coach of the Year (Men) for his tactical brilliance and ability to inspire his team to glory. Lamia Boumehdi from TP Mazembe received the CAF Coach of the Year (Women) award, recognizing her significant contributions to women's football.
The national teams were not left out, as Cote d’Ivoire was named the CAF National Team of the Year (Men), while Nigeria took home the award for the Women's National Team of the Year. These accolades reflect the collective efforts and achievements of these teams on the international stage.
In the club categories, Al Ahly from Egypt was honored as the CAF Club of the Year (Men), and TP Mazembe from DR Congo received the same recognition in the women's category. These clubs have demonstrated exceptional performance and dominance in African football competitions.
Refereeing excellence was acknowledged with Mutaz Ibrahim from Libya being named the CAF Referee of the Year (Men) and Bouchra Karboubi from Morocco receiving the award for the women's category. Their commitment to fair play and integrity in officiating has been exemplary.
The CAF Assistant Referee of the Year awards went to Elvis Guy Noupue Nguegoue from Cameroon for the men's category and Diana Chikotesha from Zambia for the women's category, highlighting their crucial roles in supporting referees during matches.
The Goal of the Year award was presented to Mabululu from Angola, whose stunning strike captured the imagination of fans across the continent.
The FIFPRO CAF Best XI selections showcased the best players in African football. The Men's Best XI featured a formidable lineup in a 3-4-3 formation, including Andre Onana as the goalkeeper, with defenders Achraf Hakimi, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Chancel Mbemba. The midfield comprised Mohammed Kudus, Sofyan Amrabat, Franck Kessie, and Yves Bissouma, while the attacking trio included Mohamed Salah, Victor Osimhen, and Ademola Lookman.
The Women's FIFPRO CAF Best XI also followed a 3-4-3 formation, with Andile Dlamini as the goalkeeper. The defense included Michelle Alozie, Karabo Dhlamini, and Osinachi Ohale. The midfield featured Lebohang Ramalepe, Linda Motlhalo, Rasheedat Ajibade, and Ghizlane Chebbak, while the forward line boasted Barbra Banda, Asisat Oshoala, and Tabitha Chawinga.
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