Super Eagles and Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman has made a landmark achievement by ranking 14th in the 2024 Ballon d’Or standings, an honor that celebrates the world’s best football players. The announcement was made Monday evening in Paris, a moment that not only marked Lookman’s first appearance on the Ballon d’Or list but also positioned him as the highest-ranked African player this year.
The 27-year-old Nigerian international has turned heads globally with his remarkable performances throughout the season. Playing in Serie A for Atalanta, Lookman has consistently been in top form, delivering decisive contributions for both his club and the Super Eagles. His efforts have not only won him fans but have also cemented his reputation as one of football’s emerging stars.
Lookman’s chances of clinching the 2024 CAF Player of the Year award are also strong, following a season filled with unforgettable moments. He etched his name in the record books with a historic hat-trick in Atalanta’s Europa League final victory over Bayer Leverkusen, becoming the first player ever to achieve this feat in a European club competition final.
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With 11 goals and seven assists in 31 Serie A matches, Lookman has demonstrated his ability to influence games. His impressive stats and consistent performances have earned him the distinction of being the sole African player nominated for the 2024 Ballon d’Or, showcasing his impact on the global stage.
Lookman’s Ballon d’Or recognition follows another historic moment for Nigerian football, with Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen finishing in eighth place in the 2023 rankings. Osimhen’s achievement last year was notable as he outperformed top players like Karim Benzema, Jude Bellingham, Robert Lewandowski, and Mohamed Salah, becoming the first Nigerian in 24 years to be nominated since Nwankwo Kanu in 1999.
Lookman’s achievement signals a new era for Nigerian football, highlighting the growing influence of African players on the international scene. With his strong Ballon d’Or debut and a historic season behind him, Lookman continues to raise the bar for what’s possible for Nigerian and African footballers alike.
