Victor Osimhen Ends Nigeria’s 24-Year Wait, Wins African Footballer Of The Year

Nigeria’s football pride, Victor Osimhen, has won the 2023 African Footballer of the Year at the 2023 CAF award.

The Napoli striker saw off competition from Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi and Egyptian forward Mohamed Salah to win the award on Monday, December 11.

Osimhen’s victory brings an end to Nigeria’s 24-year-long anticipation for Africa’s premier individual accolade. The legendary Kanu Nwankwo was the most recent Nigerian to claim the award, achieving this feat in 1999.

The Nigerian international scored 26 times in 32 appearances, securing the title of the League’s top scorer and playing a pivotal role in Napoli’s first Serie A triumph in 33 years.

Last season, Napoli achieved their best-ever result in Europe’s elite competition by reaching the Champions League quarterfinals.

Osimhen’s impressive performance, scoring five goals in six Champions League games last season, coupled with Napoli’s success, has secured the 24-year-old a place in this year’s Ballon d’Or top 10.