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An in-depth look at Nigeria's representation at the prestigious Ballon d'Or awards over the years.
The Ballon d'Or is undoubtedly football's most prestigious individual award, with a jaw-dropping list of winners, from the likes of George Best to Lionel Messi.
The organizers, France Football, have been honoring the world's best players since 1956. Only a select few Nigerian players have made the cut, but their achievements are a testament to the country's rich footballing talent.
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20:57 - 04.09.2024
Ballon d'Or Nominations: Ademola Lookman represents Super Eagles in 30-man shortlist
Ademola Lookman's claim to being the CAF Men's Player of the Year is strengthened as he is the only African player nominated for the Ballon d'Or.
READ ALSO: Ballon d'Or Nominations: Ademola Lookman represents Super Eagles in 30-man shortlist
How many Nigerians have been nominated for the Ballon d'Or?
In 1995, Finidi George, Daniel Amokachi, and Austin Jay-Jay Okocha made history as the first Nigerian players to be nominated for the Ballon d'Or. The trio paved the way for future generations, after a year of showcasing their skills at the 1994 World Cup and their respective clubs.
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Fast forward to today, and Nigerian players continue to make waves. Victor Osimhen's nomination in 2023 came as a result of a stellar year, leading Napoli to the Scudetto and securing the Golden Boot, while Ademola Lookman's Ballon d'Or nomination this year is also well-deserved after single-handedly destroying Bayer Leverkusen with a marvelous hat-trick in the Europa League final.
Osimhen's 8th-place finish last year is the highest finish by a Nigerian in the Men's award, and some feel he should have been higher.
Full list of Nigerian Ballon d'Or Nominees
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Finidi George (1995)
Daniel Amokachi (1995)
Austin Jay-Jay Okocha (1995)
Nwankwo Kanu (1996, 1999)
Victor Ikpeba (1997)
Sunday Oliseh (1998)
Asisat Oshoala (2022, 2023)
Victor Osimhen (2023)
Ademola Lookman (2024)
The 68th edition of the awards ceremony will take place on Monday 28 October at the grandiose Theatre du Châtelet, located at the Place du Chatelet in Paris.
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