Nigerian striker Victor Boniface has expressed his disappointment over not being included in the 2024 CAF Player of the Year shortlist, despite having an outstanding season in Europe.
The Bayer Leverkusen forward, who had a remarkable campaign, was missing from the nominees announced by the Confederation of African Football on Thursday.
Last season, Boniface helped Leverkusen secure the Bundesliga title and the DFB-Pokal, finished as a silver medalist in the Europa League, scored 21 goals, and provided 10 assists across 34 matches.
Read Also: CAF Releases Player Of The Year Shortlist
His exceptional performances also earned him the Bundesliga Rookie of the Season award and a place in the Team of the Season.
In response to his omission, Boniface took to social media on X on Thursday, saying, “Rookie of the season, Team of the season. No worries, I no play AFCON. Na why I dey wait for memes d’or.”
Boniface missed the Africa Cup of Nations because of an injury.
His absence has surprised many football fans, especially considering his key contributions on the field.
CAF Releases Player Of The Year Shortlist
The Confederation of African Football has released its eagerly awaited shortlist for the 2024 Men’s Player of the Year award, featuring Nigerian stars Ademola Lookman and William Troost-Ekong among the nominees.
However, a post from CAF on Thursday via X (formerly Twitter) revealed that standout striker Victor Boniface and reigning champion Victor Osimhen were notably absent from the final list.
The ten-man shortlist showcases a strong representation from North Africa, with Morocco’s defensive duo Achraf Hakimi and Sofiane Rahimi included, alongside Algeria’s Amine Gouiri.
Read Also: U17 Women World Cup: Nigeria Vs Dominican Republic Full Time Match Report
Ivory Coast’s Simon Adingra also made the cut after a remarkable club season, while DR Congo’s Chancel Mbemba and Guinea’s Serhou Guirassy earned their spots due to their impressive performances throughout the year.
Rounding out the list are Burkina Faso’s Edmond Tapsoba and South Africa’s Ronwen Williams, highlighting the diverse talent across the continent.
The nominees, hailing from top leagues in both Europe and Africa, underscore the growing global influence of African football.
This year’s selection combines established stars with emerging talent, all celebrated for their exceptional performances and consistency in 2024.
The CAF Awards 2024 will determine who succeeds Osimhen as Africa’s top player, with the ceremony poised to honor the continent’s finest football talent.
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaihFajBadmT29ufud2Z
