Ademola Lookman and Barbra Banda Crowned African Players of the Year

Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman has been named the 2024 African Footballer of the Year, while Zambia’s Barbra Banda made history by claiming the women’s prize at the Confederation of African Football (Caf) Awards in Marrakesh.

Lookman, the Atalanta forward, triumphed over stiff competition, including Ivory Coast’s Simon Adingra, Guinea’s Serhou Guirassy, Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, and South Africa’s Ronwen Williams. This marks the second consecutive year a Nigerian player has won the prestigious award, following Victor Osimhen’s victory in 2023.

Barbra Banda, striker for Orlando Pride, became the first Zambian to win the women’s accolade, surpassing Morocco’s Sanaa Mssoudy and Nigeria’s Chiamaka Nnadozie.

Lookman’s outstanding performances during the 2023-24 season secured his position as a standout player. He played a pivotal role in Atalanta’s historic first European trophy win, scoring a remarkable hat-trick in the final against Bayer Leverkusen. This achievement made him the sixth player to score a treble in a European club final and the first since 1975.

On the international stage, Lookman shone at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast, earning a spot in the Team of the Tournament. He scored three goals to help the Super Eagles reach the final, where they finished as runners-up to the host nation.

Lookman’s achievements also earned him a place on the 2024 men’s Ballon d’Or shortlist, where he ranked 14th—the only African player on the list.

Barbra Banda’s recognition highlights her remarkable contributions to women’s football. Her win reflects the growing prominence of Zambian players on the global stage.

The Caf Awards winners are selected by a panel of experts, including members of Caf’s technical committee, African media professionals, players, and coaches.