Super Falcons’ icon, Asisat Oshoala, has not been shortlisted for the CAF Women’s Player of the Year award for the first time since 2015.
This marks a surprising turn of events for the six-time winner of the prestigious accolade, whose dominance in African women’s football has spanned nearly a decade.
In her absence, Nigeria’s Rasheedat Ajibade and Chiamaka Nnadozie have been named among the nominees for the 2024 CAF Women’s Player of the Year award.
The Super Falcons duo is part of a strong 10-player list unveiled by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) on Wednesday, highlighting the continent’s exceptional talent.
The list features other stars, including Thembi Kgatlana from South Africa, Zambia’s prolific duo Barbara Banda and Racheal Kundananji, and Burundi’s Sandrine Niyonkuru. Additionally, Malawi’s Tabitha and Temwa Chawinga sisters, Morocco’s Sanaa Mssoudy, and South Africa’s Jermaine Seoposenwe complete the lineup.
Chiamaka Nnadozie, who claimed the Goalkeeper of the Year award in 2023, is in contention for the same prize this year.
The 23-year-old will face competition from Monle Oyono of Edo Queens in what promises to be a fiercely contested category.
Nigeria also boasts multiple nominations in the national team categories, with the Super Falcons, Falconets, and Flamingos all shortlisted for the National Team of the Year award.
This recognition underscores the strength and depth of Nigerian women’s football across various age groups.
Further shining a spotlight on Nigerian talent, Flourish Sabastine and Chiamaka Okuchukwu have been nominated for the Best Young Player award. Both players have been pivotal for their teams, showcasing the future of Nigerian football on the international stage.
In the Coach of the Year category, three Nigerians are in the running: Bankole Olowookere, who led the Flamingos to an impressive campaign, Chris Danjuma of the Falconets, and Moses Adukwu of Edo Queens.
Their achievements reflect Nigeria’s continuous development in women’s football.
The 2024 CAF Awards ceremony, where winners will be unveiled, is set to take place on December 16 in Marrakech, Morocco, celebrating the best in African football.
