By Latiifah Amusan
In a historic moment for Nigerian football, Victor Osimhen, the prolific forward of Napoli, has clinched a coveted nomination for the 2023 Ballon d’Or men’s award.
This prestigious honor recognizes the world’s finest football talent and places Osimhen in the elite company of football legends.
Osimhen’s nomination marks a significant milestone for Nigerian football, as he becomes the first Nigerian to vie for this prestigious accolade since Nwankwo Kanu’s nomination in 1999.
With his explosive skills and remarkable goal-scoring prowess, Osimhen has firmly etched his name in the global football scene.
The 26-year-old striker’s exceptional performance in Serie A last season, where he netted an impressive 26 goals, played a pivotal role in guiding Napoli to their first Scudetto in over three decades.
His contributions on the field have not only electrified fans but also propelled Napoli to the pinnacle of Italian football.
Osimhen faces fierce competition for the Ballon d’Or, with living legend Lionel Messi as one of the frontrunners.
Messi, a seven-time Ballon d’Or recipient, was instrumental in Argentina’s World Cup victory in Qatar, further enhancing his claim to the prestigious title.
Another formidable contender is Erling Haaland, the Manchester City forward who delivered a stellar debut season, helping City secure the treble for the first time in the club’s history.
The 2023 Ballon d’Or promises to be a battle of football titans, with a list of nominees that includes some of the brightest stars in the sport.
The full list features renowned names such as Mohamed Salah, Karim Benzema, Kevin De Bruyne, Kylian Mbappé, and many others, all vying for the coveted title.
