In his acceptance speech, the winner of the 2024 CAF Men’s Best Player award, Ademola Lookman, shared an ispiring turnaround story of how he evolved from his struggles in the past to emerging as Africa’s number one.
Sports Buddy had earlier covered the career journey of the Atalanta winger, highlighting the highs and lows of the player. The most notable low was during his loan spell at Fulham, when he missed a stoppage-time penalty against West Ham while trying a Panenka, which cost the Cottagers a vital point as they were one goal down.
Pay Attention: Get the best tips from our Bet of the Day
Fast forward four years, and the Super Eagles attacker has now been crowned Africa’s best player following an extraordinary year both at club and national levels.
His incredible achievements include scoring a historic hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen in the Europa League final to help La Dea clinch their first-ever European title.
He also played a crucial role in Nigeria’s qualification to the 2023 AFCON, scoring three goals and providing one assist during the tournament.
Ademola Lookman’s acceptance speech after winning CAF POTY award
In his appreciation speech, as seen in a video shared by Man of Letters on X, Lookman said,
“I just want to thank almighty God for everything that He’s being doing in my life. Keeps blessing me with.
“I just want to thank the Presidents, all my teammates, club and country, for their support, the love that they show me.”.
“This award is for me, my family, my nation, and to be recognized as the best player in Africa is something incredible. I am so proud.
“Just over four years ago, I failed in front of the world. Fast forward four years, I’m the best player in Africa.
“I want to say to all the young children and people watching this, don’t let your failures weigh you down or break your wings. Turn your pain into your power and continue to fly. God bless.”
Lookman became the second Nigerian player to win the CAF Player of the Year award for a second consecutive year, succeeding fellow Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen, who claimed the honour in 2023.
