The Ballon d’Or is a famous football honor given yearly to the world’s top male and female players.
Since its inception in 1956, it has served as a symbol of individual athletic prowess. A few notable Nigerian players have received nominations over the years, demonstrating their talent and contribution to the game.
Here are the nominated Nigerians.
1. Finidi George (1995)
Finidi George made history in 1995 by becoming one of the first Nigerian players to be nominated for the Ballon d’Or. George, known for his speed, talent, and crossing abilities, was an important player for Ajax during their successful Champions League campaign, earning him international notoriety.
2. Danny Amokachi (1995)
Daniel Amokachi, another Nigerian football hero, received a nomination in 1995. His powerful forward play and services to the Nigerian national team, as well as teams like Everton and Besiktas, established him as one of Africa’s most respected attackers at the time.
3. Austin Jay-Jay Okocha (1995).
Austin Jay-Jay Okocha, known for his excellent dribbling and flair, joined Finidi George and Daniel Amokachi as nominees in 1995. Okocha’s ingenuity on the pitch for clubs such as Eintracht Frankfurt and later Bolton Wanderers left an indelible mark in Europe.
4. Nwankwo Kanu (1996, 1999)
Nwankwo Kanu is one of Nigeria’s most recognizable football figures, having received two Ballon d’Or nominations in 1996 and 1999. His performances with Arsenal and Inter Milan, together with his Olympic gold medal for Nigeria in 1996, cemented his status among the greats.5. Victor Ikpeba (1997).
Victor Ikpeba’s 1997 nomination came after a standout season with AS Monaco, where his goal-scoring abilities helped the squad to tremendous success in the French league. He is still regarded as one of Nigeria’s most revered forwards in European football history.
6. Sunday Oliseh (1998)
Sunday Oliseh was nominated for the Ballon d’Or in 1998 while with Juventus. Oliseh, known for his leadership and midfield dominance, was a major member of Nigeria’s national squad, helping them win the Olympics in 1996.
7. Asisat Oshoala (2022, 2023).
In 2022, Asisat Oshoala became the first Nigerian female player to be nominated for the Ballon d’Or. She received another nomination in 2023. Her performance with FC Barcelona, where she helped her club win the Women’s Champions League and the Spanish League, established her as one of the best players in women’s football.
8. Victor Osimhen (2023)
Victor Osimhen’s outstanding performance in the 2022-2023 season earned him a Ballon d’Or nomination for 2023. His 26 goals for Napoli helped them win the Serie A title, solidifying his reputation as one of Europe’s top attackers.
9. Ademola Lookman (2024).
Ademola Lookman joined the rare group of Nigerian players who have been nominated for the Ballon d’Or award. His outstanding exploits for Atalanta, including a hat-trick in the Europa League final, drew the attention of the international football world, landing him on the elite list of 30 nominees.
