by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 22, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer
In a year brimming with football excellence, Ademola Lookman emerged as the undisputed King of African Football, claiming the prestigious 2024 CAF African Player of the Year award in a glittering ceremony in Marrakesh, Morocco. Lookman’s triumph not only highlighted his stellar performances on the pitch but also underscored his character and professionalism off it.
The Atalanta star faced stiff competition from the likes of PSG’s Achraf Hakimi, Brighton’s Simon Adingra, and Borussia Dortmund’s Serhou Guirassy but stood out for his commitment, dedication, and leadership.
A Legend’s Endorsement
Two of Nigeria’s greatest football icons, Austin “Jay-Jay” Okocha and Nwankwo Kanu, were quick to heap praises on the 26-year-old forward. Speaking via Soccer TV’s YouTube channel, Okocha described Lookman as a shining example of what it takes to succeed in football.
“For Ademola Lookman to win African Player of the Year, it’s not just about his skills on the pitch,” Okocha remarked. “His attitude, reactions to teammates, and respect for coaches all reflect his dedication and professionalism. He’s a true gentleman and an epitome of good sportsmanship.”
The former Super Eagles captain emphasized that Lookman’s achievement is a testament to hard work and determination.
“His award is a reward for dedication and hard labor. Lookman is unique, and his story will inspire generations to come.”
Kanu’s Message of Pride
Kanu, a two-time winner of the CAF African Player of the Year award, also celebrated Lookman’s achievements, expressing his pride in the Atalanta star.
“Dear Lookman, millions on our continent feel joy each time you showcase your God-given talent,” Kanu wrote in a heartfelt message. “Your dedication to your club and national team earned you this honor. I am personally proud of you, and I believe this award will inspire the younger generation to keep striving despite challenges.”
The former Arsenal forward reflected on his own journey, drawing parallels to Lookman’s success. “Having won this award twice, I know what it means to our continent. Ademola’s achievement proves that we, as Africans, can rise to the top.”
A Year of Glory
Ademola Lookman’s rise to greatness in 2024 was nothing short of spectacular. With Atalanta, he played a pivotal role in their UEFA Europa League triumph, delivering a historic hat-trick in the final. For Nigeria, his three goals at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations propelled the Super Eagles to a runner-up finish, cementing his legacy as one of Africa’s finest players.
Lookman’s journey from a promising talent to Africa’s best player serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring footballers across the continent.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 22, 2024 | Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer
Tolu Arokodare delivered a scintillating performance on Sunday, leading KRC Genk to a commanding 2-0 victory over Anderlecht in the Belgian Jupiler League. The Nigerian striker bagged a goal and an assist, cementing his place as one of Nigeria’s finest exports in Belgian football.
Anderlecht came into the match riding high on a four-game winning streak across all competitions, but Arokodare had other plans at the Cegeka Arena. He opened the scoring in the 30th minute with a clinical right-footed finish from Zakaria El Ouahdi’s pinpoint cross.
The second half saw Arokodare turn provider, setting up Konstantinos Karetsas for a well-executed goal following a blistering counterattack. The victory not only consolidated Genk’s position at the top of the table but also highlighted Arokodare’s growing influence in the league.
With his 11th league goal of the season, Arokodare now sits second in the Jupiler League scoring charts, just behind Anderlecht’s Kasper Dolberg, who has 12.
The goal also marked a significant milestone for Arokodare, as he surpassed the legendary Stephen Keshi’s tally of 24 goals to enter the top ten Nigerian scorers in Belgian league history. Arokodare now has 25 league goals, achieved in just two years since joining Genk from Amiens SC.
He joins an elite group of Nigerian scorers in Belgium, trailing the likes of Joseph Akpala (90 goals), Paul Onuachu (79), and Daniel Amokachi (35).
With Genk extending their lead over second-placed Club Brugge by four points, Arokodare’s form will be crucial in their quest for the league title.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 22, 2024 | Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer
Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen is once again at the center of transfer speculation, with Premier League giants Manchester United and Chelsea reportedly ready to meet Napoli’s €75m asking price to secure his services next summer, according to Fichajes.
The 25-year-old Super Eagles star, currently on loan at Galatasaray, has been in fine form, scoring 10 goals and providing 5 assists in all competitions for the Turkish side this season. His move to Galatasaray followed a failed transfer last summer, as Napoli’s €130m release clause deterred interested clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United.
However, with Osimhen’s release clause now reduced to €75m, both English clubs are keen to add the prolific forward to their ranks. Napoli appears ready to part ways with the striker, paving the way for a potential blockbuster summer move.
Manchester United: A Risky Move?
The Red Devils are in need of a reliable goal-scorer, especially with Marcus Rashford rumored to be on his way out of Old Trafford. However, United’s current attacking setup, featuring Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Højlund, raises questions about whether Osimhen would be guaranteed a starting role. Additionally, United’s inconsistent form this season could deter the Nigerian, as they might miss out on European football next term.
Chelsea: A Perfect Fit?
Chelsea, under Enzo Maresca, are building a formidable squad and currently sit second in the Premier League. While Nicolas Jackson has shown improvement, the Blues need more firepower in attack to sustain their title push. Osimhen, who played a pivotal role in Napoli’s historic Scudetto win, would bring proven quality and a winning mentality to Stamford Bridge.
As the summer transfer window approaches, the battle for Osimhen’s signature promises to be intense. With Chelsea enjoying better form and prospects than Manchester United, they may hold the edge in the race for one of football’s most sought-after forwards.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 22, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer, USA
Ghanaian winger Joseph Paintsil has described his first season with LA Galaxy as a remarkable and fulfilling journey after helping the club end their decade-long wait for the MLS Cup.
The former Genk star joined LA Galaxy on a three-year deal as one of their Designated Players, quickly making an impact in Major League Soccer. Paintsil scored on his debut against the San Jose Earthquakes and provided two assists, setting the tone for a stellar campaign.
By season’s end, the Black Stars winger had amassed 10 goals and 7 assists in 30 regular-season appearances, adding 4 goals and 1 assist during the playoffs. His contributions proved vital as LA Galaxy claimed the Western Conference title before securing their first MLS Cup since 2014.
Speaking to 3Sports, Paintsil expressed his pride in the season: “My season was really great. Coming to MLS was a new challenge, but it’s still football, just a different style of play. Scoring and assisting to help LA Galaxy win the Western Conference and the MLS Cup was an amazing feeling. It’s been 10 years since this club won the trophy, so to be part of breaking that drought in my first season is truly special.”
The winger also emphasized the significance of winning in a league filled with star talent like Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets: “Winning the league is not easy, especially in MLS with the level of competition. Adding this trophy to my record in my debut season is an incredible achievement.”
Paintsil’s remarkable debut season has further cemented his place among Ghanaian players making waves in MLS, joining the likes of Jonathan Mensah, Harrison Afful, David Accam, and Yaw Yeboah.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 22, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Mohammed Kudus, the Ghanaian midfield sensation, showcased his attacking prowess once again by scoring in West Ham United’s 1-1 draw against Brighton & Hove Albion in the Premier League on Sunday.
The 24-year-old netted his third league goal of the 2024-25 campaign, striking from his favorite position as an inside forward on the right side of the attack. Kudus later revealed in an interview that this role suits his natural style of play, allowing him to maximize his impact on the pitch.
“It felt great to score, especially from a position where I feel most comfortable – on the right,” Kudus shared. “That said, it’s always about contributing to the team, and I’ll keep adapting and improving wherever I’m needed.”
Kudus celebrated his goal in a unique way, sitting on a traditional Ghanaian stool with an elephant design at its base. He explained the gesture as a way of honoring his roots and sharing Ghanaian culture with the world.
Despite serving a five-match ban earlier this season, Kudus has already made 12 league appearances, solidifying his place as a key figure in West Ham’s lineup.
