The CAF Awards 2024 are set to be held this December, and the category for “Goalkeeper of the Year” in the men’s division has gained significant attention. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) released its list of nominees, showcasing an array of talented goalkeepers who have demonstrated exceptional skill and resilience in both club and international competitions.
The Nominees:
1. Oussama Benbot (Algeria)
The Algerian shot-stopper, Oussama Benbot, had an incredible season with JS Kabylie. Known for his quick reflexes and composed demeanor, Benbot played a crucial role in Kabylie’s league performances, keeping a number of clean sheets that earned his side valuable points. He now keeps for USM Alger.
2. André Onana (Cameroon)
The ever-reliable André Onana has been the backbone of both the Cameroonian national team and Manchester United. His ability to command the box and make crucial saves at critical moments makes him a strong contender for this award. Onana’s leadership and inspiring performances have been pivotal in Cameroon’s AFCON qualifiers.
3. Yahia Fofana (Ivory Coast)
Emerging as one of Africa’s promising young talents, Yahia Fofana’s performances in the French Ligue 1 have made waves. The Ivorian goalkeeper has been rock-solid for his club and has seamlessly stepped up for the national team when called upon.
4. Lionel Mpasi (DR Congo)
Lionel Mpasi, playing in Ligue 2 in France, has become a key figure for the DR Congo national team. His agility and sharp instincts have drawn attention, especially after stellar displays during the AFCON qualifiers.
5. Mostafa Shobeir (Egypt)
Mostafa Shobeir is one of the brightest young goalkeepers from Egypt. As the custodian for Al Ahly, Shobeir’s decisive saves in crucial CAF Champions League fixtures helped his team achieve notable success. His impressive displays have also earned him a call-up to the Egyptian national side.
6. Diguigi Diarra (Mali)
Mali’s Diguigi Diarra has enjoyed a standout season, both at club and international levels. Diarra’s consistency and acrobatic saves were instrumental in his club’s run-in continental competitions and his national team’s qualification for the upcoming AFCON.
7. Munir El Kajoui (Morocco)
Moroccan goalkeeper Munir El Kajoui has been in fine form over the last year. His reliable performances and leadership on the field have helped Morocco maintain their status as one of Africa’s top teams. His experience and composure under pressure set him apart.
8. Stanley Nwabili (Nigeria)
Stanley Nwabili, representing Nigeria, has had a season to remember. His remarkable displays in the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) have been matched by his solid performances for the national team, earning him a well-deserved nomination.
9. Ronwen Williams (South Africa)
South Africa’s Ronwen Williams has established himself as one of the continent’s elite goalkeepers. As captain of the national team and first-choice keeper for Mamelodi Sundowns, his leadership and exceptional shot-stopping abilities have been crucial in both league and continental competitions.
10. Amanallah Memmiche (Tunisia)
The young Tunisian, Amanallah Memmiche, is the surprise package among the nominees. His recent emergence has been nothing short of extraordinary, with a string of impressive performances for both club and country. Memmiche’s agility and calmness under pressure have made him a standout performer.
The CAF Awards 2024 promise to be an electrifying event, and the “Goalkeeper of the Year” category is no exception. Each of these goalkeepers has shown remarkable resilience and brilliance between the posts, overcoming challenges in their respective leagues and international fixtures.
The final winner will be chosen based on their performances over the past year, and every nominee carries a unique story of grit and hard work. The upcoming awards ceremony in December will not only celebrate the winner but also honor the journey of each nominee who has showcased the finest goalkeeping skills on the continent.
