Sport
“Don’t Let Your Failures Break Your Wings”- Lookman on Winning CAF Player of the Year
Super Eagles winger Ademola Lookman delivered an inspiring and heartfelt acceptance speech after being named the 2024 CAF Player of the Year.
The 27-year-old Nigerian footballer received the prestigious award, beating out strong competition from top names such as Ivory Coast’s Simon Adingra, PSG’s Achraf Hakimi, Guinea striker Serhou Guirassy, and South Africa goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.
In his acceptance speech, Lookman took a moment to reflect on a pivotal turning point in his career.
He recalled an unforgettable moment from 2020 when he was playing for Fulham in the Premier League.
In a crucial match against West Ham, Lookman attempted a panenka-style penalty in the dying moments of the game.
His delicate chip lacked the necessary power, and the ball meekly landed into the hands of West Ham’s goalkeeper, Lukasz Fabianski.
Fulham went on to lose 1-0, and the miss became a memorable moment of disappointment in Lookman’s career.
However, Lookman didn’t allow that moment to define him.
Instead, he used it as a catalyst for growth and determination.
Reflecting on the incident, Lookman said, “Just over four years ago, I failed in front of the world. Fast forward four years and I’m the best player in Africa.”
“To the young children and people watching this,” Lookman continued, “don’t let your failures weigh you down to the point where they break your wings.
Turn your pain into your power and continue to fly.”
Coventry City manager, Frank Lampard, speaks on team player and states how the player’s stance will help the team get into the Premier League.
The player is revealed to be Onyeka who he spoke about in the recent interview.
“He brings a different quality and probably a different profile to the midfield players we have.
“As I say, the profile is slightly different and I think that helps us in terms of the options and the competition in the middle of the park for us.”
Arsenal coach, Mikel Arteta, after their last match, shares an update on the injured team members after their last match.
He shared an update on Saka and stated that he is doing better after going through a hip injury. “His hip is improving a lot. Hopefully, he’ll be ready soon.”
He added about the other team members: “Martin is getting better and will be back in a few days, and Jurrien is fit for the weekend.”
Super Eagles footballer, Alex Iwobi, speaks on the World Cup and reveals their hope to play in the 2026 World Cup.
He shared that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is hopeful about hearing from them after they submitted a petition against the Democratic Republic of Congo.
“I mean we’re still waiting, well hopefully we can go to the World Cup, but I feel it’s a tough one.
“It’s a tough one because winning AFCON is like… It’s a great legacy, it’s a great thing to have in your career, a memorable moment. But then at the same time, because I’ve been to the World Cup already, a lot of the players haven’t been.”
Fire9ja Fashion Poll: Which Olandria Look Is Your Favorite?
Priscilla Mkambala and Juma Jux Celebrate 1st Wedding Anniversary
