It was double celebration for Nigeria as Victor Osimhen and Asisat Oshoala emerged African Footballer of the year in the men and women categories. Both players received this accolade at a glittering Caf Awards ceremony in Marrakesh, Morocco.
Victor Osimhen Shines in Napoli’s Triumph
In a remarkable 2022-23 season, Victor Osimhen played a pivotal role, contributing directly to 31 goals as Napoli secured the Serie A title, a first in over 30 years. They also advanced to the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals. He also played a crucial role in Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations qualification.
This victory marked the first time a Nigerian player received this honor since Nwankwo Kanu in 1999.
Double Triumph for Nigeria
Nigeria’s Asisat Oshoala, retained the women’s award, marking her sixth win in this category. Asisat contributed to Barcelona’s triumph at the UEFA Women’s Champions League. She is also the first Nigerian, male or female to score at three World Cup tournaments.
The 29 year old triumphed over strong competition from Thembi Kgatlana and Barbara Banda.
The winners, including Osimhen and Oshoala, were determined through a voting process involving Caf’s technical committee, African media professionals, head coaches, captains, and clubs participating in Caf’s continental competitions.
Other Notable Awards
Desiree Ellis claimed her fourth Caf coach of the year award for leading Banyana Banyana to their first World Cup. Morocco’s Walid Regragui received the men’s coach of the year award, and Nigeria’s Super Falcons were named the women’s national team of the year.
CAF Awards 2023 Winners
- Player of the Year (men): Victor Osimhen (Napoli & Nigeria)
- Player of the Year (women): Asisat Oshoala (Barcelona & Nigeria)
- Coach of the Year (men): Walid Regragui (Morocco)
- Coach of the Year (women): Desiree Ellis (South Africa)
- National Team of the Year (men): Morocco
- National Team of the Year (women): Nigeria
- Goalkeeper of the Year (men): Yassine Bounou (Al Hilal & Morocco)
- Goalkeeper of the Year (women): Chiamaka Nnadozie (Paris FC & Nigeria)
- Young Player of the Year (women): Nesryne El Chad (Lille & Morocco)
- Young Player of the Year (men): Lamine Camara (Metz & Senegal)
- Club of the Year (women): Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa)
- Club of the Year (men): Al Ahly (Egypt)
- Interclub Player of the Year (women): Fatima Tagnaout (AS FAR & Morocco)
- Interclub Player of the Year (men): Percy Tau (Al Ahly & South Africa)
