The upcoming CAF Awards, set to take place on December 16, 2024, at the Palais des Congrès in Marrakech, Morocco, promises to shine a spotlight on the most remarkable talents in African football. With nominees in various categories, including the prestigious African Footballer of the Year awards, the ceremony is poised to be a celebration of not only the players’ skills but also the growth of football across the continent.
Established in 2000 by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), the CAF Awards have evolved into an annual showcase honoring brilliance in African football. Although the accolade for African Footballer of the Year dates back further, having been introduced in 1992, the awards have grown to include an expansive range of categories. This year’s celebration will award a total of 15 distinctions—seven each for both men and women, along with the goal of the year accolade. In a landscape where the game is becoming increasingly competitive, these awards acknowledge and uplift the achievements of players, coaches, and clubs, while encouraging the next generation of talent.
Ademola Lookman, the Nigerian forward currently dazzling fans with his performances at Atalanta, stands as a front-runner for the Men’s African Footballer of the Year award. His stellar contribution to his club’s success in Serie A and his impressive showing in international competitions, including a runner-up finish in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), has made him a key player to watch. Competing against him are notable talents like Achraf Hakimi from Morocco and Simon Adingra from the Ivory Coast, highlighting the remarkable depth of talent present in African football today.
A prominent candidate for the Women’s African Footballer of the Year accolade is the Zambian forward Barbra Banda. Following her pivotal role in guiding Orlando Pride to NWSL Championship glory and being named finals MVP, Banda’s stock has soared. Her accomplishments have made her an emblem of excellence for aspiring female players. Banda is contending with the Chawinga sisters, Tabitha and Temwa, whose accolades include domestic titles in Europe and collective exceptional performances that have captured the attention of fans worldwide.
While the prestige of the CAF Awards lies in honoring players as chosen by a panel of experts, fan engagement has found its place within the ceremony, particularly concerning the Goal of the Year award. Fans can cast their votes on CAF’s official website, underscoring a progressive trend in sports that values spectator input. This year’s voting will heavily weigh on fan choice, accounting for 70% of the overall score, while the remaining 30% will come from Technical Experts associated with the CAF. The shortlist presents exciting goals scored during CAF competitions, showcasing the thrilling spectacles that define football on the continent.
For those eager to witness the glamour and celebration of football excellence, the 2024 CAF Awards will kick off at 19:00 Moroccan time. Fans can anticipate accessibility options, as CAF has historically provided live streams of the event on its official website and YouTube channel. Moreover, esteemed broadcasters like SuperSport have committed to showing the ceremony, ensuring that African football fans worldwide can partake in this momentous occasion, regardless of geographical barriers.
As the 2024 CAF Awards approach, the anticipation of recognizing emerging talent and established stars underscores the vibrancy of African football. With several first-time nominees and several historic precedents at stake, the event embodies hopes for a progressive future. Should Lookman and Banda secure their respective awards, it would also mark significant milestones in their careers, cementing their legacies within African football’s rich narrative.
The conjunction of outstanding nominees, the celebratory spirit of the event, and the engagement of fans signifies that the CAF Awards represent more than just an annual event; they symbolize a burgeoning phenomenon in African football that nurtures talent, acknowledges achievements, and inspires the next generation to dream big. As we approach this grand celebration, football fans everywhere can look forward to honoring the spirit of football that continues to unite and motivate millions across the continent and beyond.