The African Football Awards ceremony was an opportunity to celebrate the exceptional achievements of the players in the king of sports on the continent. At this prestigious event, FC Mazembe shone by winning two major distinctions: the Women’s Club of the Year award and the Women’s Coach of the Year award for Lamia Boumedhi. These awards were more than deserved, recognizing a remarkable season for the Congolese team that conquered the CAF Women’s Champions League.
Another highlight of the evening was the nomination of the Leopards of the DRC captain, Chancel Mbemba, in the team of the year, a recognition of his talent and leadership on the field.
However, DRC coach Sebastien Desabre was not rewarded despite being nominated among the finalists in the Coach of the Year category. It was ultimately Ivorian Emerse Fae who won the precious trophy, leaving Desabre without distinction.
On the women’s side, Zambia’s Barbra Banda shone by winning the Women’s Ballon d’Or, an award that recognizes her talent and contribution to the development of women’s football in Africa.
Finally, the 2024 African Ballon d’Or was awarded to Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman, a well-deserved accolade for this talented player who has left his mark on the continent’s football pitches.
This African football awards ceremony highlighted the talent, hard work and determination of football players on the continent. It also highlighted the importance of supporting and promoting women’s football, highlighting the exceptional achievements of the clubs and players who contribute to its growth. Hopefully, these accolades will inspire the next generation of African football talents to follow their dreams and aim even higher on the international stage.