Nigerian football sensations, Victor Osimhen and Asisat Oshoala, have emerged as finalists in the prestigious 2023 Globe Soccer Awards, according to an announcement by the organizers on Tuesday. This recognition follows their recent victories in the African male and female Best Players of the Year awards held in Marrakech, Morocco.
In the highly competitive men’s category, Victor Osimhen finds himself in the company of football icons such as Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, and Erling Haaland. The final 11 also includes stellar names like Kevin De Bruyne, Mohamed Salah, Karim Benzema, Vinicius Junior, and Bernardo Silva.
On the women’s front, Asisat Oshoala, a prominent figure in Nigerian and Barcelona football, stands among the top 10 finalists. Riding high on the euphoria of her sixth CAF Women’s Player of the Year award, Oshoala faces stiff competition, including players like Sam Kerr and Aitana Bonmati.
The Globe Soccer Awards cover various categories, spanning from Best Emerging Player to Best Goalkeeper, Best Midfielder, Best Coach, Best Club (men and women), Fans Favorite Player, Best Agent, and Best Club President.
The winners across these diverse categories are set to be unveiled during the live broadcast of the Globe Soccer Awards gala on January 19, 2024, in Dubai. This annual event, held in collaboration with international football organizations like FIFA, UEFA, ECA, and major football clubs, serves as a prestigious recognition in the world of football.
Notably, the current titleholder is former France and Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema, while his former teammate and Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo boasts six victories, making him the record-holder for the award of all time.