- During the event, a delighted Osimhen acknowledged the influence of Nigerian legend Emmanuel Amuneke, his coach during the U-17 level, and expressed gratitude to the fans from his country, among others
Napoli forward Victor Osimhen has clinched the 2023 CAF Men’s Player of the Year title, triumphing over Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi and Egypt’s Mohamed Salah.
His win marks the first time a Nigerian player has secured this accolade since Nwankwo Kanu claimed it in 1999.
During the event, a delighted Osimhen acknowledged the influence of Nigerian legend Emmanuel Amuneke, his coach during the U-17 level, and expressed gratitude to the fans from his country, among others.
“First of all, I want to say thank you to God for everything. Special thanks go to Mr. Emmanuel Amunike; without him, I don’t think I would be standing in front of you guys holding one of the most prestigious awards in world football,” he told the gathering of the creme-de-la-creme of African football and beyond.
“It’s a dream come true for me. I want to thank everyone who has seen me through life’s journey. In achieving my dreams, in achieving my goals.
“I appreciate Nigerians for their support; I appreciate Africa for putting me on the map, for encouraging me, and for defending me regardless of my shortcomings.
“I also thank Emmanuel Adebayo for his encouragement. Solomon Kalu, I appreciate you. And every African legend that I have looked up to while growing up has inspired me. Didier Drogba, my role model, thank you so much. God bless you all.”
Her compatriot, Asisat Oshoala also won the Women’s Player of the Year for a record-extending sixth time.
Oshoala won ahead of South Africa’s Thembi Klagtlana and Zambia’s Barbara Banda.
Oshoala’s Super Falcons teammate, Chiamaka Nnadozie won the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award.
The Super Falcons won the National Team of the Year award.
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