Sport
“Ademola Lookman Deserves It” – Cédric Bakambu Backs Nigerian Star for CAF Award
Real Betis forward, Cédric Bakambu, has thrown his support behind Nigerian star Ademola Lookman for the 2024 CAF Men’s Player of the Year award.
Lookman’s stellar performances for both his club, Atalanta, and the Nigerian national team have placed him among the top contenders for the prestigious title.
Bakambu, a 33-year-old Congolese international, expressed his belief that Lookman has demonstrated the quality and consistency needed to follow in the footsteps of fellow Nigerian, Victor Osimhen, who won the award in 2023.
Speaking during an interview with Sporty Show, Bakambu acknowledged the fierce competition but remained firm in his choice.
“It’s tough because Mohamed Salah is in great form right now.
But if I had to pick, in my opinion, I’d go with Lookman, the Atalanta player,” Bakambu said.
“He truly deserves it. He’s had an incredible year, but we’ll see what happens.”
Lookman, who joined Atalanta in 2022, has had a breakout year in 2024.
His pivotal role in Atalanta’s Europa League triumph and his consistent performances in Serie A have earned him widespread praise.
He also shined for Nigeria during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where his goals and attacking flair helped the Super Eagles reach the final.
Meanwhile, the competition for the CAF award remains fierce, with Salah, the Egyptian forward for Liverpool, also having a strong case for the title due to his relentless goal-scoring form.
Frank Onyeka remains hopeful about the Super Eagles’ chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite their struggles in the qualifiers so far.
With just one win, four draws, and one loss in their six matches, the Eagles are currently sitting in fourth place in Group C, trailing leaders South Africa by six points.
However, Onyeka believes there’s still a chance for the team to turn things around. “I know the situation is tough, but we still have a shot. If we win our next four games, we can make it,” the Augsburg midfielder said in an interview with Oma Sports.
Nigeria’s World Cup qualification campaign resumes in September, with crucial matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe on the horizon.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has heaped praise on Bukayo Saka, calling him a grounded and dedicated player who truly loves the club.
Speaking during his pre-match press conference ahead of their Premier League clash with Brentford, Arteta said, “Saka is incredibly humble, down-to-earth, and fully committed to Arsenal. His connection with the club and everyone around it runs deep.”
Arteta also shared how happy he is about Saka’s desire to keep pushing for success with the team. “It’s great to know he wants to stay here and win with us,” he added.
The 22-year-old winger has been in top form this season. After recently coming back from an injury, Saka made a strong statement with his performance in Arsenal’s Champions League quarter-final clash against Real Madrid, showing once again why he’s such a key player for the Gunners.
Victor Osimhen is confident Galatasaray have what it takes to finish the season strong and lift the Turkish Super Lig title.
The Yellow and Reds are battling it out with city rivals Fenerbahce in a tight title race. After a 2-0 win over third-placed Samsunspor on Friday night, Galatasaray now sit six points clear at the top.
Osimhen and Yunus Akgun both found the net in the win, giving their side a crucial boost in the title run.
Speaking after the match, Osimhen praised the team’s spirit and belief.
“Our focus is clear. We want to win, and we know we have the quality to do it,” he said. “It won’t be easy, we’ve got tough games ahead, but we’re ready to give everything.”
He added that the team is determined to push through and secure a third straight league title.
“We just have to fight every step of the way. If we stay focused, I believe we’ll come out on top,” he said.
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