Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen and Asisat Oshoala of the Super Falcons are among the nominees for the Men and Women’s 2023 Ballon d’Or and Ballon d’Or Feminin
The Nigerian duo were among the shortlist released yesterday for the iconic trophy usually presented to the player considered as the best in both Men and Women’s category.
In the last 12 months, both Osimhen and Oshoala have excelled at club and international level. The long list recognises those who did well at the World Cup and others who were brilliant for their club sides.
Argentina Super star, Lionel Messi and Manchester City’s Norwegian striker Erling Haaland head the shortlist for the Men’s award while Spain’s Aitana Bonmati leads the Women’s nominations.
Undoubtedly, Erling Haaland is the biggest threat to Messi’s dream of claiming an historic eighth Ballon d’Or. Haaland scored a massive 52 goals for Manchester City in his debut season and also won a historic treble of the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League
Nigeria’s Oshoala will have many Women’s football stars to contend with if her hope of winning the award is to be realised. World Cup Golden Ball award winner, Aitana Bonmati looks the favourite for the prize but England’s Millie Bright, Rachel Daly, and Mary Earps also have good chances.
The Ballon d’Or trophy will be awarded to world’s best player on 30 October at the prestigious Theatre du Chatelet in Paris, France
Ikenna Okafor
