Ballon d'Or: Nigeria make African history at Ballon d’Or awards

No player from Nigeria or an African country has ever had both male and female nominees for a Ballon d'Or award since the awards' inception.

However, after an impressive season in both men's and women's football, two Nigerian stars were nominated for the award.

This makes it the first time both male and female Nigerian players have been nominated for this award for the first time as they make history for Africa.

The nominees for the 2023 Ballon d’Or men's and women’s awards have been released today with two Nigerian players making it to the list.

Two Nigerian players made history at the 2023 Ballon d’Or men's and women’s awards as they were nominated for the award.

Victor Osimhen who plays for Napoli and the Super Eagles and Asisat Oshoala who plays for Barcelona Women and the Super Falcons both made the award list.

Osimhen was instrumental last season for Napoli helping them secure their first Scudetto title in 30 years 

He also made a name for himself by being the Serie A highest goal scorer with 26 goals and providing five assists for Napoli.

Asisat Oshoala on the other hand also made it to the list of the 2023 Ballon d’Or women’s award.

The Barcelona star helped her team win the 2022/2023 Women's Primera Division in Spain, scoring 26 goals and providing six assists in all competitions.

Asisat Oshoala was also FC Barcelona Femeni's highest goal scorer for the 2022/2023 season. 

Both players have made it to the Ballon d’Or nomination for the first time in the history of Africa