Nigerian striker Victor Boniface has shared his frustration and disappointment at not being included in the final shortlist for the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Men’s Player of the Year award.
The official list, released in October, featured several prominent names, including Nigerian internationals Ademola Lookman and William Troost-Ekong. However, the omission of both Boniface and fellow Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen from the top 10 nominees raised eyebrows and left Boniface visibly disheartened.
In an exclusive video posted on Sunday by sports journalist Pooja on X (formerly Twitter), Boniface spoke candidly about his feelings towards the exclusion, stating that although he wasn’t sad, he was definitely disappointed.
He reflected on his exceptional season and expressed that, based on his performances, he felt he deserved to be among the top contenders for the prestigious award.
“I’m not sad, but I’m disappointed because I had an amazing season last season,” Boniface said in the video.
“For me not to be there… maybe the award is for African players in AFCON, I don’t know. But in general, if it’s for African Player of the Year, I think I had a great season.
” Boniface’s absence from the shortlist left him pondering whether the CAF awards were more heavily weighted toward players who performed in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) rather than players who excelled across club competitions.
Despite his feelings of disappointment, Boniface emphasized that awards are not his primary focus.
He acknowledged that, as a professional footballer, recognition for his efforts is always appreciated, but improving his skills and consistently performing well on the field is far more important to him.
“I don’t need to prove to anybody; I don’t really care about awards and stuff,” he clarified.
“But of course, as a football player, I want to improve, I want to do more for myself.” This sentiment reflected Boniface’s personal drive and his determination to continue growing as a player, regardless of external recognition.
When pressed about who he believed should win the prestigious CAF Men’s Player of the Year award, Boniface was quick to name his Nigerian teammate, Ademola Lookman.
“Lookman, for sure Lookman,” Boniface said, displaying his admiration and respect for his fellow countryman’s performances.
Lookman has had an impressive year, which saw him earn a well-deserved spot in the CAF Player of the Year shortlist.
Boniface’s comments underline a broader feeling within the Nigerian football community, where many fans and pundits alike believed that both Boniface and Osimhen deserved to be on the shortlist, given their stellar performances for their respective clubs during the season.
Osimhen, in particular, has been a standout player for Serie A giants Napoli, while Boniface impressed with his goal-scoring exploits in Belgium.
The CAF Men’s Player of the Year award, which recognizes the continent’s most outstanding footballer, has always been a highly coveted accolade.
However, the 2024 edition seems to have sparked debate, particularly around the criteria used for selection. While AFCON performances are often prioritized, players excelling in European leagues, like Boniface, may feel overlooked, despite their significant contributions on the international stage.
In any case, Boniface’s disappointment is unlikely to deter his ambition. Known for his focus and work ethic, he will undoubtedly continue to perform at a high level, with or without the accolades, as he strives to take his career to even greater heights.
His acknowledgment of Lookman’s deserved nomination further reflects his professionalism and sportsmanship, reinforcing that he remains supportive of his peers, even if they are his competitors.
As the CAF Player of the Year awards ceremony approaches, all eyes will remain on the nominees, including Lookman, who has certainly proven himself as one of the top contenders. Meanwhile, Boniface will undoubtedly use this setback as motivation to push even harder, aiming for bigger achievements in the future.
