CAF Awards 2026: Osimhen, Lookman Missing From Men’s Player Of The Year Shortlist

The Confederation of African Football, CAF,has announced the nominees for the 2026 Men’s Player of the Year award, with Nigerian internationals Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman notably missing from the 10-man shortlist.

The omission of both players comes despite their impressive contributions to Nigeria’s campaign at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, where the Super Eagles finished third.

Lookman enjoyed an outstanding tournament, recording three goals and four assists in six appearances. His performances also earned him a place in the AFCON Team of the Tournament.

Osimhen equally made a significant impact, finishing as Nigeria’s highest goalscorer at the competition with four goals and two assists.

Read Also:Osimhen Nears Galatasaray’s All-Time Goalscoring Record For Foreign Players

Meanwhile, Senegal and Morocco dominate the nominations, with three players each making the shortlist.

Senegal’s nominees are Sadio Mané, Ismaïla Sarr and Pape Gueye, while Morocco’s representatives are Achraf Hakimi, Brahim Díaz and Ismaël Saibari.

The remaining nominees are Ivory Coast’s Amad Diallo, DR Congo’s Yoane Wissa, Ghana’s Antoine Semenyo and South Africa’s Teboho Mokoena.

The awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on Monday, December 7, 2026, in Lagos, Nigeria.

By Adeboye Amosu

Adeboye Amosu is a seasoned sports journalist and Senior Content Writer with extensive experience covering Nigerian football and international football. He specializes in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), provides insightful coverage, match reports, news, and analysis of the domestic game. Adeboye also follows the Super Eagles of Nigeria and Chelsea, bringing his knowledge of the teams, players, and competitions to his writing.