“After the successful event which saw the Senegalese Sadio Mané and the Nigerian Asisat Oshoala crowned best player in Rabat last year, CAF will once again distinguish the major players in African football during a ceremony. prestige in the Cherifian Kingdom,” indicated the Confederation in a press release published on its website.
She added that the Awards will reward the best club and international players who distinguished themselves during the past season, culminating in the crowning of the African Players of the Year in the men’s and women’s categories.
CAF also recalled that previous winners in the men’s category include Yaya Touré (2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014), Samuel Eto’o (2003, 2004, 2005 and 2010), Didier Drogba (2006 and 2009), Mohammed Salah (2017, 2018), Riyad Mahrez (2016), Nwankwo Kanu (1996 and 1999), Abedi Pele (1992) and the great George Weah (1995).
“Among the ladies, if Oshoala has dominated the category in recent years by winning the 2014, 2016, 2017, 2019 and 2022 editions, she still faces competition from former winners, including South African Thembi Kgatlana (2018). ),” she continued, noting that this category also counts among its previous winners, Super Falcons legend, Perpetua Nkwocha (2004, 2005, 2010 and 2011).
Furthermore, CAF has reported that several other distinctions will be at stake, including those of Interclub Player of the Year, Young Player of the Year, National Team of the Year, Coach of the Year, Club of the Year and Goal of the Year.
We will also find the Interclub Player of the Year award, which was introduced last year after the successful launch of the CAF Women’s Champions League, it was concluded.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Football Expert on CAF Awards
Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we have an exciting discussion lined up as we delve into the upcoming CAF Awards and the future of African football. Joining me is renowned football expert, Dr. Samuel Nkosi. Thanks for being here, Dr. Nkosi!
Dr. Nkosi: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to talk about African football and the prestigious CAF Awards.
Editor: Last year’s CAF Awards in Rabat were quite a spectacle, with Senegal’s Sadio Mané and Nigeria’s Asisat Oshoala taking home the top honors. What do you think this recognition means for African football as a whole?
Dr. Nkosi: It’s monumental! Winners like Sadio Mané and Asisat Oshoala not only represent individual excellence but also highlight the talent and potential within African football. Their success serves as an inspiration for young athletes across the continent, signaling that they can reach the highest levels of the sport.
Editor: Absolutely! And with the anticipation building for this year’s awards, what key factors do you think the CAF will consider while selecting this year’s best players?
Dr. Nkosi: The CAF typically looks at a combination of individual performance, contributions to their clubs, and influence on national teams. It’s vital how players perform in international competitions as well, especially with upcoming tournaments that can sway the decision. For instance, standout performances in the African Cup of Nations can elevate a player’s profile significantly.
Editor: Speaking of the African Cup of Nations, how does participation in such tournaments affect a player’s chances during the CAF Awards?
Dr. Nkosi: Participation in the Afcon is crucial. It’s a platform where players showcase their abilities on a continental level, often in front of scouts and fans from around the globe. A stellar performance can turn players into household names and, naturally, this carries weight in the eyes of CAF when it comes to nominations.
Editor: That makes perfect sense. With many eyes on the awards, what should fans look out for this year that makes the event special or different from years past?
Dr. Nkosi: This year, we can anticipate a broader representation of emerging talents from different countries, especially those who have broken through in top leagues worldwide. With the continued development of football academies in Africa, more players are gaining visibility. Furthermore, the event is evolving to include more interactive components, which will enhance the fan experience both physically and virtually.
Editor: Exciting times indeed! Lastly, for the wider football community outside Africa, how can they engage with and support the success of African football beyond just the awards?
Dr. Nkosi: Engaging with African football means appreciating its rich history and the unique styles of play. Fans can support African leagues by watching games, following players’ developments, and advocating for more broadcasting opportunities for these leagues. Partnerships with European clubs can also foster talent exchanges, enhancing the player pipeline.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Nkosi, for sharing your insights! It’s clear that African football is on an upward trajectory, and the CAF Awards will only serve to further showcase its potential. Any final thoughts?
Dr. Nkosi: Just to keep an eye on the emerging talents! They might surprise you. The future of African football is bright, and moments like the CAF Awards help shine a spotlight on that brilliance.
Editor: Thank you once again for your time! We look forward to the CAF Awards and to see who will take the top honors this year.