Onyedika Earns Ebony Shoe Award Nomination In Belgium

Raphael Onyedika has earned a major individual recognition in Belgium after being shortlisted for the prestigious Ebony Shoe Award, which celebrates the best African player or players of African descent in the Belgian Pro League.

The Super Eagles midfielder, who currently plays for Club Brugge, has been in impressive form throughout the season, and his performances have now placed him among the elite contenders for the award.

Onyedika is joined on the nomination list by Union Saint-Gilloise forward Promise David, who also has Nigerian roots. Other players in contention include Zakaria El Ouahdi of Genk, Charleroi’s Parfait Guiagon, and Royale Union Saint-Gilloise midfielder Adem Zorgane.

The Ebony Shoe Award remains one of the most respected individual honours in Belgian football, with a strong history of Nigerian success.

Onyedika now follows in the footsteps of compatriots who have previously made their mark, including Tolu Arokodare, who won the award in the previous edition.

Over the years, several Nigerian football stars have been recognised through the award, such as Daniel Amokachi, who won the inaugural edition in 1992, as well as Victor Ikpeba, Godwin Okpara, Celestine Babayaro, and Paul Onuachu. Their achievements highlight the long-standing impact Nigerian players have had in Belgian football.

Onyedika’s nomination reflects his growing influence at Club Brugge, where he has featured consistently in midfield, contributing both defensively and in build-up play.

He has made 25 league appearances this season and also registered a goal, underlining his importance to the team’s structure.

The award ceremony is scheduled to take place on May 4 at the Hotel Tangla in Brussels, where the winner will be officially announced.