Nigerian duo Victor Osimhen and Asisat Oshoala have been shortlisted for the 2023 Ballon d’Or award in the men’s and women’s categories. The prestigious ceremony will take place in Paris on October 30.
Osimhen currently the leading scorer in the African Cup of Nations qualifying series with seven goals, becomes the first male Nigerian footballer to be shortlisted for the award in 24 years.
The 24-year-old made history as the first African to be crowned Capocannoniere last season in the Serie A and the Napoli striker is the first player from the continent to achieve the feat winning the Scudetto after scoring 26 Serie A goals (31 goals in 39 games across all competitions).
Oshoala on her part, earned her consecutive nomination after a successful campaign with Barcelona Femeni where she won the Women’s Champions League. Last year, she became the first African to be nominated for the Women’s Ballon d’Or and this time, she is the only African player listed in the women’s category.
The 28-year-old was the top scorer for Barcelona Femeni last season after she notched 26 goals (21 league goals and five in the Women’s Champions League) in all competitions.
She was also instrumental in Barcelona Femeni winning the league title and the Women’s Champions League last season.
