Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has made history by becoming the eighth Nigerian player to be nominated for the prestigious Ballon d’Or award.
The 25-year-old Atalanta star was recognized for his exceptional form at both club and international levels over the past season.
Former Borussia Dortmund star and Super Eagles captain, Sunday Oliseh, congratulated Lookman on his nomination, saying, “Congratulations to Ademola Lookman for joining this exclusive list of Nigerians who were globally acclaimed! Naija’s all-time magnificent 8 just became THE MAGNIFICENT 8. Delighted and welcome to the club, Lil bro.”
Ademola scored a wonderful hat-trick that won Atalanta the Europa League title this year
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Lookman’s impressive performances, including a hat-trick in Atalanta’s 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen in the 2023-24 Europa League final, have catapulted him into the global spotlight.
His contributions at the international level were equally impressive, with three goals and one assist instrumental in guiding Nigeria to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Super Eagles electric forward is currently on international duty with the Nigerian squad that will face Benin Republic and Rwanda in the remaining legs of the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.
Ademola Lookman has been nominated for the 2024 Balon d’or awards
Ademola will be poised on impressing for his fatherland to further boost his chances of winning the football most coveted award-the Balon d’or during its this year’s showdown in December.
This nomination further establishes Lookman as a leading contender for the 2024 African Footballer of the Year award, following in the footsteps of Victor Osimhen, who placed eighth in the 2023 Ballon d’Or rankings.
Lookman’s achievement is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport. As he continues to make waves in the football world, Nigerian fans can expect great things from this talented player.
The Ballon d’Or nomination is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting career for Ademola Lookman.
