Super Eagles Team Coordinator, Patrick Pascal has boldly claimed that Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman is the clear favorite to clinch the CAF Player of the Year award after an incredible season.

Lookman, who has been in outstanding form throughout the year, is tipped to succeed his compatriot, Victor Osimhen, as Africa’s top footballer.

His performances for both club and country have left many convinced that he deserves the prestigious honor.

Earlier this year, Lookman was Nigeria’s key man at the Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON, where he led the Super Eagles to the final, scoring three goals and providing an assist.

At club level, he was equally remarkable, delivering a historic performance in the Europa League final for Atalanta.

Lookman’s hat-trick against an unbeaten Bayer Leverkusen secured the trophy for the Italian side, cementing his status as one of the continent’s finest talents.

Speaking on Brila.net, Pascal, who also serves as the Chairman of the Bauchi State Football Association, did not hold back in his assessment, insisting that CAF would face backlash if Lookman is overlooked for the award.

Ademola Lookman (L) celebrates. (Photo by Haykel Hmima/Anadolu via Getty Images)

“If Ademola Lookman doesn’t win this CAF award, journalists will finish CAF. The whole world will finish them,” Pascal declared. “What are you going to tell people? So Ademola Lookman stands a good chance to win.”

This season, Lookman has scored 8 goals with 5 assists in 14 appearances.

The CAF Awards ceremony is set to take place in Marrakesh, Morocco, on December 16.

Nominees for the African Player of the Year, 2024. Photo | X

Super Eagles captain, William Troost-Ekong, is also among the nominees, adding extra anticipation for Nigerian football fans.