Why Did Lookman Outshine Hakimi in the Battle for Africa's Best Player?

At a big event in Marrakech, Morocco, Nigerian soccer player Ademola Lookman was named Africa's Best Player for 2024. He beat Moroccan player Achraf Hakimi and other nominees to win this award.

Lookman had a fantastic year in 2024, displaying exceptional talent for his club and in international competitions. When Nigeria faced Ivory Coast in the Africa Cup of Nations final, he assisted them in getting there. He was selected for the tournament's top team after scoring three goals.

For his club, Atalanta, Lookman led them to a special win in the UEFA Europa League. He scored three goals in the final against Bayer Leverkusen. This victory ended a 61-year wait for a trophy for Atalanta. Last season, Lookman also contributed to 18 goals in Italy's Serie A.

Although Hakimi had an impressive year, winning domestic trophies with Paris Saint-Germain, his international setback with Morocco’s early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations and the failure to claim the continental title may have been deciding factors in Lookman’s victory. But Hakimi's accomplishment of winning Olympic bronze with Morocco's U-23 squad this year gave his otherwise difficult year a bright spot.

Thanks to Lookman's victory, Nigeria has now won the prized award seven times, solidifying its football legacy on the African continent.