By David Faith Boluwatife (IT Student, Ifotech)
The nominations for the 2022 CAF Women’s Player of the Year Award are prominently filled by Nigeria’s Super Falcons. Notable players such as Asisat Oshoala, Chiamaka Nnadozie, Rasheedat Ajibade, Toni Payne, Christy Ucheibe, Osinachi Ohale, and Uchenna Kanu are among those acknowledged.
The Super Falcons had an impressive year, reaching the round of 16 in the Women’s World Cup and narrowly missing the quarter-finals, succumbing to England in a penalty shootout.
At the club level, several players achieved success. Rasheedat Ajibade showcased her consistency both for the national team and Atletico Madrid, scoring nine goals in 28 games last season.
Toni Payne, another consistent performer, played a vital role for Sevilla Women, tallying three goals and four assists in 28 games.
Asisat Oshoala, a Ballon d’Or nominee, contributed significantly to Barcelona’s UEFA Women’s Champions League triumph and had an exceptional season in Spain.
Having won the CAF Women’s Player of the Year Award five times previously, Oshoala is now among 29 nominees for the coveted prize.
The upcoming CAF Awards Gala on December 11 will also introduce the inaugural CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award, with Chiamaka Nnadozie considered one of the favorites.
In addition to recognizing the best players, coaches, and goalkeepers, CAF will honor the best women’s national team and women’s youth national team.
The Awards Gala will also celebrate finalists of the ongoing CAF Women’s Champions League in Ivory Coast under the Club of the Year category.
