Ademola Lookman has been named the Men’s Player of the Year at the 2024 CAF Awards in Morocco on Monday, capping what has been a memorable year for the Super Eagles and Atalanta forward.
Here, we take a look at how he worked his way to becoming Africa’s best footballer ahead of the likes of Mo Salah, Victor Osimhen and more.
Atalanta Heroics
Lookman left a major impression on the football world with a well-taken hat-trick in the Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen. This historic feat not only led Atalanta to their first-ever European title but showcased his ability to deliver on the biggest stages.
AFCON Display
He was the Super Eagles’ top scorer at the last Africa Cup of Nations in Cote D’Ivoire with three goals – including two in the knock-out stages – as Nigeria made it all the way to the final before narrowly losing out on the title to the hosts.
Perseverance
Once upon a time, Lookman became infamous at Fulham after fumbling a penalty with the last kick of the game against West Ham back in 2020.
These days, he’s proving to be a clutch player on a regular basis and in big games to the point that many have forgotten he also played for Everton before all this.
It is easy to put Lookman’s growth in this aspect down to perseverance, consistency in performing well, and focus to succeed.