Ademola Lookman Crowned CAF Footballer of the Year

Super Eagles winger Ademola Lookman has been named the CAF Footballer of the Year, capping off a stellar year for the Atalanta star.

The prestigious accolade was announced during a grand ceremony in Marrakech, Morocco, on Monday night. Lookman edged out a competitive shortlist that included Ivory Coast’s Simon Adingra, PSG’s Achraf Hakimi, Guinea striker Serhou Guirassy, and South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.

The 27-year-old’s triumph comes on the back of a remarkable season marked by historic achievements. Lookman became the first player to score a hat-trick in the Europa League/UEFA Cup final since 1975, netting all three goals within 26 minutes against Bayer Leverkusen.

He also earned a spot in the Europa League Team of the Year and was instrumental in Atalanta’s Serie A campaign, contributing directly to 18 goals. His stellar form saw him ranked 14th in the Ballon d’Or standings during the gala held on October 28.

Lookman’s achievement underscores his meteoric rise in African and global football, solidifying his place among the continent’s elite.