CAF Awards 2024: Controversies, inconsistencies and innovations
The 2024 CAF Awards ceremony turned Marrakech into the center of attention for an exceptional evening. While Nigerian Ademola Lookman was crowned African Player of the Year , the event was marked by several controversies and notable moments.
Ademola Lookman crowned, but a controversial choice
For the second consecutive year, a Nigerian wins the prestigious trophy. After Victor Osimhen in 2023, it is Ademola Lookman ‘s turn to lift the prize. However, this choice was not unanimous. Some observers would have preferred to see Serhou Guirassy or Achraf Hakimi rewarded.
CAF All-Star Team: Major Absences
The announcement of the team of the year came as a surprise. Despite his title of African goalkeeper of the year and interclub player of the year, Ronwen Williams was left out in favor of André Onana . Similarly, Serhou Guirassy , author of 30 goals in 30 games with Stuttgart, was left out, replaced by Victor Osimhen in attack. These choices are explained by the voting of the players via FIFPro , a process independent of the main distinctions awarded by CAF.
Best goal of the year: the Mabululu controversy
The trophy for the Best Goal of the Year went to Mabululu for his achievement against Namibia during the 2023 AFCON . Despite this choice, many eyes were on the technical gem of Denis Omedi , author of an impressive goal with Kitara in the Ugandan Super 8. With only 13,766 votes and a 6th place, Omedi could not compete with the massive mobilization of Angolan supporters in favor of Mabululu.
Young Player of the Year: Lamine Camara creates a surprise
Senegalese Lamine Camara was voted Young African Player of the Year , a result that divided opinion. Many observers expected to see Karim Konate crowned, as his performances speak for themselves:
- Top scorer in the Austrian championship with 20 goals .
- Austrian champion with Red Bull Salzburg.
- Winner of CAN 2023 with Ivory Coast.
- Ranked 8th in the Kopa Trophy .
Despite this, CAF preferred to reward Lamine Camara, author of remarkable progress.
Mixed reaction from the Moroccan public
The ceremony was marked by an unexpected reaction from the Moroccan public . A persistent rumor announced Achraf Hakimi as the winner of the African Player of the Year title. When Ademola Lookman was announced as the winner, part of the public chanted the name of the Moroccan defender, expressing their discontent in a very unfair manner.
Conclusion
The 2024 CAF Awards offered an evening rich in celebrations, but also in controversies . Between contested choices, surprising absences and new innovations, this event sparked lively debates among African football fans. However, this ceremony once again highlights the dynamism and diversity of African football, even if adjustments in the selection processes could strengthen its credibility.
