Nigerian football stars Asisat Oshoala and Paul Onuachu have been nominated for the prestigious 2024 FIFA Best Awards.
The announcement has sent waves of excitement across Nigeria and the global football community.
Both players are being recognized for their outstanding performances in 2024.
Fans, players, and coaches are now set to cast their votes in various categories.
Oshoala and Onuachu Shine on the World Stage
Asisat Oshoala, widely regarded as one of Africa’s finest footballers, continues to impress on the international scene.
Her nomination for The Best FIFA Women’s Player is a testament to her skill, dedication, and impact on the pitch.
Oshoala, who plays for FC Barcelona, has enjoyed a remarkable year, helping her team secure key victories.
Paul Onuachu, on the other hand, earned his spot in the Best FIFA Men’s Player category following standout performances for both his club and the Nigerian national team.
His spectacular volley goal against Lesotho in a recent international match further cemented his reputation as a top striker.
Fans Take Center Stage in Voting
For the first time, fans will play a significant role in selecting the winners.
FIFA has opened voting on its website, allowing fans to choose their favorites across multiple categories.
Voting will be equally weighted between fans, national team captains and coaches, and media representatives.
Categories include The Best FIFA Men’s Player, Women’s Player, and respective coaches and goalkeepers for both genders.
Fans will also vote for The Best FIFA Men’s 11 and Women’s 11, a new feature introduced this year.
Exciting New Award: The FIFA Marta Award
A major highlight of the 2024 awards is the introduction of the FIFA Marta Award, named after Brazilian football legend Marta.
This award will honor the best goal scored in women’s football worldwide.
The Puskás Award, which traditionally celebrates the best goal in men’s football, will continue to do so.
Voting for these two awards will be split equally between fans and a panel of FIFA Legends.
Global Football Stars in Contention
Oshoala and Onuachu are in elite company, with some of the world’s biggest football stars also nominated.
The list includes Lionel Messi, Erling Haaland, Alexia Putellas, and Sam Kerr, among others.
FIFA described the nominees as “the leading lights in another thrilling year of football.”
