Atalanta's Ademola Lookman Named African Footballer Of The Year After Stellar Season

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Ademola Lookman has been honoured as the African Footballer of the Year for the first time, following an outstanding season with Atalanta in Serie A. He surpassed competitors like Simon Adingra from Ivory Coast, Serhou Guirassy from Guinea, and Morocco's Achraf Hakimi to claim this prestigious award in Marrakesh. Lookman is now the seventh Nigerian to receive this accolade, joining the ranks of Nwankwo Kanu, Victor Ikpeba, Rashidi Yekini, Emmanuel Amunike, and Victor Osimhen.

Lookman's remarkable performance under Gian Piero Gasperini saw him contribute to 27 goals across all competitions last season. He scored 17 goals and provided 10 assists in 45 appearances. His first career hat-trick came during the Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen, leading Atalanta to a 3-0 victory and their first European title. This achievement made him only the second player to score a hat-trick in a major European final for an Italian team since Pierino Prati did so for Milan in 1969.

This season, Lookman continues to shine as Atalanta leads the Serie A standings. With 12 goal involvements so far, he trails only teammates Mateo Retegui and Marcus Thuram in contributions. His decisive goal against Milan earlier this month helped Atalanta match their record for consecutive Serie A wins, which they then surpassed against Cagliari.

On the international front, Lookman was named in the Africa Cup of Nations team of the tournament after scoring three goals and helping Nigeria's Super Eagles secure a runner-up finish. Additionally, he was the sole African player on this year's men's Ballon d'Or shortlist, where he placed 14th.

In women's football, Orlando Pride striker Barbra Banda made history by becoming the first Zambian to win the women's African Footballer of the Year award. She finished ahead of Moroccan Sanaa Mssoudy and Nigeria's Chiamaka Nnadozie.

Lookman's achievements highlight his significant impact both domestically and internationally. His performances have not only earned him individual accolades but have also contributed greatly to his team's successes.