On the sidelines of the CAF Awards 2024 ceremony, Marrakech is preparing to welcome a multitude of renowned guests, including sports leaders, political figures, as well as legends of international Football, for the nomination of the Player of the year, enter others.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is preparing to write a new chapter in the history of continental football with the 2024 CAF Awards ceremony, scheduled for Monday, December 16. The event will be held in the prestigious setting of the Palais des Congrès in Marrakech, providing a majestic stage to reward the best talents in African football.
Among the most anticipated distinctions, the title of Player of the Year constitutes the high point of the evening. Five exceptional players were shortlisted as finalists, reflecting the immense diversity and brilliance of African football.
Simon Adingra, talented Ivorian winger playing for Brighton & Hove Albion, is one of the favorites of this edition. The rising star of African football shone at the TotalEnergies 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, marking crucial moments for the Ivorian team. With a decisive equalizer in the quarter-final and two key passes in the final, Adingra helped his national team win the continental title.
Serhou Guirassy, a Guinean striker, has also gained attention after an exceptional season with Stuttgart in the Bundesliga, where he scored 30 goals. Since transferred to Borussia Dortmund, Guirassy continues to impress on the international scene, notably during qualifying for CAN 2025, where he revealed himself as a prolific and regular scorer.
Achraf Hakimi, the Moroccan right-back from Paris Saint-Germain, is another strong candidate. Recognized as one of the best defenders in the world, Hakimi played a vital role in his club’s success, winning Ligue 1 and the Coupe de France. His leadership was also demonstrated during the Paris Olympic Games, where he led the Moroccan team to a historic bronze medal.
Ademola Lookman, Nigerian striker playing for Atalanta Bergamo, stood out for his spectacular performances in Serie A. With his club as with the national team, Lookman has multiplied his high-level performances, establishing himself as an essential asset .
Finally, Ronwen Williams, South African goalkeeper for Mamelodi Sundowns, completes this prestigious list. At CAN 2023, he contributed significantly to South Africa’s journey to the bronze medal with some spectacular saves. At club level, he distinguished himself with an impressive defensive record.
CAF has described this edition of the Awards as one of the most competitive in history. The five finalists, from such varied backgrounds, embody the continued rise of African football. Through their exploits, they symbolize not only the pride of their respective nations, but also the growing influence of Africa in the global football landscape.
The event, which will be widely broadcast across the continent and beyond, promises to reaffirm the position of African football as a key player on the world stage.
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