CAF Awards: Nigeria dominate as Osimhen, Oshoala and Nnadozie wins

Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen was named men's African player of the year on Monday during a ceremony organised by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in Marrakesh, Morocco.

Osimhen, who led Napoli to win the Italian League title last season, beat Paris Saint-Germain's Morocco right-back, Achraf Hakimi and Liverpool's Egypt winger, Mohamed Salah, to win the top award.

"It's a dream come true for me. I appreciate Nigerians for their support. I appreciate Africa for putting me on the map, encouraging me, and defending me, regardless of my shortcomings," the 24-year-old said.

On same night, forward Asisat Oshoala won the African Women's player of the year for a record-extending sixth time.

The Barcelona striker had her previous successes in 2014, 2016, 2017, 2019 and 2022.

In her speech, Oshoala urged Africa to work together as a team to do better in international competitions.

“We must work together as a team because football is a team sport. Let’s start at home and go to the world and conquer it,” she said.

Oshoala scored in a win over co-hosts Australia that helped Nigeria reach the 2023 Women's World Cup round of 16, where they lost to England on penalties.

Chiamaka Nnadozie was crowned the 2023 CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year to complete the Nigerian treble.

The Paris FC shot-stopper beat Moroccan goalkeeper Khadija El-Rmichi and South Africa’s Andile Olaminni to win the award.

Nnadozie was presented the prize by Nigeria Falcons former goalkeeper, Precious Dede at the venue of the ceremony in Marrakech, Morocco on Monday.