The year 2024 was a remarkable chapter in Nigerian football history, filled with extraordinary achievements, unforgettable performances, and moments that captured the hearts of fans worldwide.
From historic wins to individual brilliance, Nigerian footballers and teams proved their mettle on the grandest stages. Here are the top 10 highlights:
10. Flying Eagles Defend WAFU B Title
In October, Nigeria’s U-20 team, the Flying Eagles, retained their WAFU B Championship title with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Ghana in Lome, Togo. Despite a rocky group stage start, the team showcased resilience and earned a spot in the 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations.
9. Edo Queens Conquer Nigeria and WAFU B
Edo Queens had an unforgettable year, claiming their maiden Nigerian Women’s Football League (NWFL) title and the WAFU B CAF Women’s Champions League qualifiers. Although they finished fourth in the continental tournament, their domestic and regional successes marked a historic milestone.
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8. Rangers International Win NPFL Title
Rangers International of Enugu clinched their eighth NPFL title in June, ending an eight-year drought. With 70 points, the Flying Antelopes cemented their reputation as one of Nigeria’s most decorated clubs and secured a spot in the CAF Champions League.
2016 when Enugu Rangers won the League for the first time in 32 years after defeating El-Kanemi Warriors.
– The Atmosphere 🔥
– The Passion 🫂
– Ifeanyi’s Injury 🤦Many believe 2016 season is the best season ever in the history of NPFL, Do you share in same sentiment ?… pic.twitter.com/KG41yZprKI
— Leagues Reporter (@LeaguesReporter) March 30, 2024
7. El-Kanemi Warriors End 32-Year FA Cup Drought
The Maiduguri-based El-Kanemi Warriors lifted the Nigerian FA Cup for the first time since 1992, defeating Abia Warriors 2-0 in the final. Ibrahim Salihu’s heroics, including two goals, earned them a place in the CAF Confederation Cup and a ₦50 million cash prize.
6. Victor Boniface Shines in Germany
Victor Boniface’s debut season with Bayer Leverkusen was nothing short of spectacular. He helped the club secure both the Bundesliga and German Cup, becoming the first Nigerian to achieve the feat. Boniface’s impressive 14 goals and multiple accolades solidified his status as a rising star in European football.
5. Super Falcons Return to the Olympics
The Super Falcons made a historic comeback to the Olympics after a 16-year absence, edging South Africa in the qualifiers. Although their campaign in Paris ended in the group stage, their qualification reaffirmed their dominance in African women’s football.
4. Troost-Ekong Named AFCON Player of the Tournament
William Troost-Ekong delivered stellar performances at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), earning the Player of the Tournament award despite Nigeria’s runner-up finish. His leadership and contributions, including three crucial goals, highlighted his influence on and off the pitch.
3. Lookman’s Europa League Hat-Trick
Ademola Lookman made history by scoring a hat-trick in Atalanta’s Europa League final win against Bayer Leverkusen. The Nigerian forward’s brilliance secured Atalanta’s second-ever major trophy and ended Leverkusen’s remarkable unbeaten streak.
2. Super Eagles Reach AFCON Final
The Super Eagles defied expectations to reach the AFCON final, overcoming injuries and formidable opponents. Despite losing 2-1 to hosts Côte d’Ivoire, their spirited performances under coach José Peseiro earned widespread admiration.
1. Ademola Lookman Named Africa’s Best
The crowning moment of 2024 was Ademola Lookman’s CAF African Footballer of the Year win. His exceptional season with Atalanta, including 17 goals, 10 assists, and a Europa League triumph, made him a standout star. Lookman’s honor marked back-to-back Nigerian wins for the award, following Victor Osimhen’s 2023 triumph.
