Ademola Lookman’s Triumphant Year: A Dominant Force in African Football
Ademola Lookman, the newly crowned 2024 African Player of the Year, has solidified his position as a leading figure in football, both on the continent and globally. His exceptional performances throughout the year have earned him widespread recognition, culminating in a resounding victory in the PUNCH Sports Extra Sportsman of the Year poll. Lookman garnered an overwhelming 72% of the votes, a testament to his impact and the admiration he commands from fans and pundits alike. His remarkable journey, from a setback four years prior to becoming the continent’s best player, serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere.
Lookman’s contributions to his club, Atalanta, have been nothing short of transformative. He played a pivotal role in guiding the Serie A club to their first European trophy and their first piece of silverware in 61 years, a feat that etched his name into the club’s history. His individual brilliance shone brightly in the UEFA Europa League final, where he became the first African player to score a hat-trick in a major European final, securing the title for Atalanta against Bayer Leverkusen. This extraordinary performance earned him a rare perfect 10 rating from L’Equipe, a distinction only bestowed upon 17 other players in history, highlighting the magnitude of his achievement. Lookman’s consistent performance throughout the year saw him amass an impressive 22 goals and 12 assists in 42 appearances for Atalanta, further solidifying his status as one of the most sought-after players in Europe.
On the international stage, Lookman’s impact was equally significant. He played a crucial role in Nigeria’s journey to the final of the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations, finishing as the joint-third top scorer with three goals. His dedication and commitment to the national team underscore his passion for representing his country and his desire to contribute to its success. This stellar year culminated in his crowning achievement: being named the 2024 African Player of the Year, the seventh Nigerian to receive this prestigious accolade. His acceptance speech resonated with many, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and transforming setbacks into motivation.
Lookman’s exceptional form has carried over into the 2024/25 season, where he continues to inspire Atalanta with his goals and assists. His performances have also earned him global recognition, as evidenced by his nomination for the 2024 Ballon d’Or, where he finished a commendable 14th, the only African player to be nominated.
Rena Wakama: A Rising Star in African Basketball
Rena Wakama, the head coach of Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, secured a well-deserved second place in the PUNCH Sports Extra poll. Her leadership and tactical prowess were instrumental in D’Tigress’ historic performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Despite Nigeria’s overall disappointing showing at the Games, Wakama’s team emerged as a beacon of hope, achieving unprecedented success and capturing the hearts of basketball fans worldwide. As one of the youngest coaches in Olympic history, Wakama’s accomplishments signify a new era for African basketball.
D’Tigress, under Wakama’s guidance, defied expectations and shattered barriers. Their victories over Australia and Canada, culminating in their historic advancement beyond the group phase, marked a turning point for African basketball. They set new standards for themselves and the continent, exhibiting resilience and determination throughout the tournament. Their performance against the United States, despite the loss, showcased their ability to compete against the world’s best, scoring the most points the Americans had ever conceded in a fourth quarter at the Olympics. Wakama’s recognition as the Best Coach of the Women’s Olympic Basketball Tournament was a fitting tribute to her exceptional leadership and the team’s remarkable achievements.
Victor Osimhen: Navigating Challenges and Finding New Ground
Victor Osimhen, the 2023 African Player of the Year and PUNCH Sports Extra Sportsman of the Year, faced a challenging 2024. Injuries and disagreements with his club, Napoli, limited his playing time and ultimately led to a loan move to Galatasaray in Turkey. Despite these setbacks, Osimhen continued to demonstrate his talent, finishing the year with 21 goals and four assists in 29 games. His ability to adapt and persevere in the face of adversity showcases his resilience and determination.
His transfer to Galatasaray provided a fresh start and an opportunity to reignite his career. Osimhen quickly made an impact, contributing with assists and goals, solidifying Galatasaray’s position at the top of the league. While 2024 presented its share of challenges, Osimhen’s move to Turkey offers a new chapter filled with promise and the potential to recapture his peak form.
Rasheedat Ajibade and Folashade Oluwafemiayo: Champions in Their Own Right
Rasheedat Ajibade, captain of the Super Falcons, finished fourth in the poll, highlighting her consistent contributions to both her club, Atletico Madrid, and the national team. Her goals and assists throughout the year, combined with her leadership qualities, make her a valuable asset to both teams. Ajibade played a key role in Nigeria’s qualification for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations and their return to the Olympics after a 16-year absence.
Folashade Oluwafemiayo, the Nigerian powerlifter, rounded out the top five in the poll. Her remarkable achievement at the Paris Paralympics, where she defended her title and set a new world record, is a testament to her dedication and unwavering spirit. Oluwafemiayo’s success, coupled with the overall performance of Nigeria’s para-powerlifters, highlights the strength and depth of African talent in the sport. Her story of overcoming pain and adversity to achieve greatness serves as an inspiration to athletes and individuals alike.
The collective achievements of these exceptional athletes underscore the growing prominence of African sports on the global stage. Their dedication, perseverance, and unwavering pursuit of excellence serve as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of sport and its ability to inspire and unite.
