The Ebony Shoe award, a prestigious accolade bestowed upon the best African footballer plying their trade in the Belgian Jupiler Pro League, has once again garnered attention with the announcement of its nominees for the 2023 edition. Among the contenders are two Nigerian internationals, Tolu Arokodare and Raphael Onyedika, who have consistently showcased their exceptional talents throughout the season. Their inclusion in the shortlist underscores the growing influence of African players in shaping the landscape of Belgian football and highlights the continued success of Nigerian footballers in particular. Arokodare, a prolific striker for Genk, has emerged as one of the league’s leading goal scorers, while Onyedika, a dynamic midfielder for Club Brugge, has played a pivotal role in his team’s impressive run to the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League.
Arokodare’s goal-scoring prowess has been instrumental in Genk’s title challenge, establishing him as a key figure in the team’s attacking strategy. His clinical finishing and ability to create scoring opportunities have earned him widespread recognition and solidified his position as one of the most exciting young talents in the league. Meanwhile, Onyedika’s commanding presence in midfield has been crucial to Club Brugge’s success, both domestically and on the European stage. His ability to dictate the tempo of the game, break up opposition attacks, and contribute offensively has made him an indispensable asset to his team. The performances of both players have not only elevated their respective clubs but have also brought them into contention for individual honors, further emphasizing their impact on the Belgian football scene.
The Ebony Shoe award holds significant historical weight, having been established in 1992 to recognize the outstanding contributions of African players to the Belgian league. The award’s early years were dominated by Nigerian footballers, with the first five editions going to players from the West African nation. This initial period of Nigerian dominance established a strong connection between the award and Nigerian football, a connection that continues to resonate today with the nomination of Arokodare and Onyedika. While the award subsequently saw winners from other African countries emerge, the initial Nigerian success cemented the Ebony Shoe as a symbol of African footballing excellence in Belgium.
The list of past Nigerian winners reads like a who’s who of Nigerian footballing greats, including Daniel Amokachi, Victor Ikpeba, Godwin Okpara, Celestine Babayaro, and, more recently, Paul Onuachu in 2021. These players represent different generations of Nigerian football and their collective success in Belgium highlights the consistent flow of talent from Nigeria to the Belgian league. Should either Arokodare or Onyedika claim the 2023 award, they would join this illustrious group of Nigerian winners, further solidifying Nigeria’s legacy within the context of the Ebony Shoe.
The selection process for the Ebony Shoe involves a distinguished panel comprised of league club coaches, the Belgian national team manager, sports journalists, and honorary jurors. This diverse jury ensures a comprehensive evaluation of the nominees, taking into account various aspects of their performance and contribution to the league. The award ceremony, scheduled for May 12, will mark the culmination of the selection process and provide a platform to celebrate the achievements of African footballers in Belgium. The event promises to be a significant occasion, recognizing not only individual talent but also the broader impact of African players on the Belgian football landscape.
Beyond the individual accolades, the Ebony Shoe award serves as a testament to the growing influence of African players in European football leagues. Their presence enriches the competition, brings diverse playing styles, and contributes to the overall development of the game. The nominations of Arokodare and Onyedika are further evidence of this trend and underscore the increasing importance of African talent in shaping the future of European football. Their potential victory would not only be a personal triumph but also a symbolic representation of the continued rise of African football on the global stage.
