Nigerians will have special reason to watch the 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris as Ademola Lookman stands among the 30 contenders for the prestigious title. The 68th edition of the Ballon d’Or awards, hosted in the Theatre du Chatelet today, will recognize the top players, clubs, and managers for their remarkable achievements last season.
For Nigerian fans, Lookman’s nomination stirs memories of past Nigerian football legends who have also received this international nod. Let’s dive into this year’s Ballon d’Or and highlight Nigeria’s rich history with the award. Coming just after Victor Osimhen’s nomination last year, Nigeria footballers can now said to be at the highest level of football accolades like it was in the 90s after an over 20-year hiatus.
What is the Ballon d’Or?
The Ballon d’Or, presented annually by French magazine France Football, celebrates the year’s best players, coaches, and clubs. Categories include the Ballon d’Or for the top male player, the Yashin Trophy for the best goalkeeper, and the Kopa Trophy for players under 21. The awards have recognized football excellence since 1956, and Nigerian players have graced this prestigious list over the years.
Who’s competing for 2024 Ballon d’Or?
Here’s the complete shortlist for the 2024 Ballon d’Or, including Ademola Lookman representing Nigeria and Atalanta:
🇳🇬 Ademola Lookman (Atalanta)
🇬🇧 Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)
🇹🇷 Hakan Çalhanoğlu (Inter)
🇪🇸 Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid)
🇵🇹 Rúben Dias (Manchester City)
🇬🇧 Phil Foden (Manchester City)
🇳🇴 Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
🇩🇪 Mats Hummels (Borussia Dortmund)
🇬🇧 Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)
🇩🇪 Toni Kroos (Real Madrid)
🇫🇷 Kylian Mbappé (Paris Saint-Germain)
🇳🇴 Martin Ødegaard (Arsenal)
🇪🇸 Dani Olmo (Barcelona)
🇬🇧 Cole Palmer (Chelsea)
🇪🇸 Rodri (Manchester City)
🇩🇪 Antonio Rüdiger (Real Madrid)
🇬🇧 Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)
🇫🇷 William Saliba (Arsenal)
🇺🇾 Federico Valverde (Real Madrid)
🇧🇷 Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid)
🇪🇸 Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
Ademola Lookman’s journey to the Ballon d’Or
Lookman’s rise to the Ballon d’Or shortlist comes from his standout season with Atalanta in Serie A, where his goal-scoring prowess and playmaking made waves. He was instrumental to his side winning the Europa League, their first trophy since 1963, scoring a hat-trick in their 3-0 final win over Bayer Leverkusen.
Nigerians in Ballon d’Or history
Nigerian players have earned their place on the Ballon d’Or stage through powerful performances at both club and international levels:
- Victor Osimhen (Napoli, 2023) – Osimhen’s incredible season led Napoli to their first Serie A title in 33 years, breaking records as Serie A’s top scorer and earning the African Footballer of the Year award. His eighth-place Ballon d’Or finish in 2023 set a high standard for Nigerian talent.
- Sunday Oliseh (Ajax, 1998) – Known for his midfield command, Oliseh helped Ajax secure the Dutch league title in 1998 and made an unforgettable impact for Nigeria at the World Cup with a stunning goal against Spain.
- Victor Ikpeba (Monaco, 1997) – Ikpeba’s role in Monaco’s league triumph and his stellar performance in Nigeria’s 1996 Olympic gold-winning campaign earned him the nickname “Prince of Monaco” and an African Footballer of the Year title.
- Nwankwo Kanu (Inter, Arsenal – 1996, 1999) – Kanu is the only Nigerian to receive multiple nominations. In 1996, he led Nigeria to Olympic gold, and his creativity later won him fans worldwide during his time with Arsenal.
- Austin ‘Jay-Jay’ Okocha (Eintracht Frankfurt, 1995) – A fan favorite, Okocha’s nomination reflected his dribbling mastery and playmaking abilities, which made him one of the most entertaining players globally.
- Daniel Amokachi (Everton, 1995) – Amokachi’s strength and determination helped Nigeria win the 1994 AFCON and saw him score memorable goals for Everton, including two in the FA Cup semi-final.
- Finidi George (Ajax, 1995) – Key to Ajax’s Champions League victory, Finidi’s crossing ability and speed made him a vital part of Ajax’s success.
Who decides the Ballon d’Or winner?
The Ballon d’Or winner is determined by a panel of 100 journalists from the top FIFA-ranked nations, each selecting their top 10 players from the 30-man shortlist. Points are awarded based on individual and team performances and overall fair play, making the competition both fierce and prestigious.
Ballon d’Or favourites
Without Messi or Ronaldo, many are tipping Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior as the favorite this year. His 24 goals and 11 assists last season helped Madrid secure their 15th UEFA Champions League title and put him among the most promising young talents in football today.
Where to watch 2024 Ballon d’Or
The Ballon d’Or ceremony will be broadcast live from Paris on Monday, October 28. Nigerian fans can follow the event on L’Equipe’s YouTube channel and website starting at 7:45 p.m. GMT.
Complete Ballon d’Or awards list
- The Ballon d’Or – Best Male Player
- Ballon d’Or Féminin – Best Female Player
- Yashin Trophy – Best Male Goalkeeper
- Kopa Trophy – Best Male Player Under 21
- Gerd Muller Trophy – Best Male Striker
- Socrates Award – Humanitarian Work
- Men’s Club of the Year
- Women’s Club of the Year
- Men’s Coach of the Year
- Women’s Coach of the Year
What’s your prediction?
With Lookman in the running, all eyes are on his potential ranking. Nigerian fans, let us know—where do you think he’ll finish? And who do you think will be crowned the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner?