The 2017 African Footballer of the Year award ceremony was a night of glitz, glamour, and unforgettable moments. Fans across the globe tuned in to witness history as the continent’s best player was crowned. But who took home the prestigious title? Let’s dive back into the excitement and relive the journey to discover the African Footballer of the Year 2017.
The Contenders for the Crown
The 2017 shortlist for African Footballer of the Year was packed with talent, showcasing the incredible skill and athleticism emerging from the continent. Among the nominees were:
- Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Gabon): The prolific goalscorer was a force to be reckoned with for both club and country.
- Sadio Mané (Senegal): His explosive speed and clinical finishing made him a key player for Liverpool and Senegal.
- Mohamed Salah (Egypt): Salah’s exceptional dribbling skills and eye for goal were captivating audiences worldwide.
- Victor Moses (Nigeria): A versatile player who was instrumental in Nigeria’s successful World Cup qualifying campaign.
- Naby Keita (Guinea): Keita’s dominance in midfield for RB Leipzig earned him widespread recognition.
The Winner is…
After much anticipation, the winner of the African Footballer of the Year 2017 was announced: Mohamed Salah! The Egyptian winger’s remarkable performances throughout the year, leading Egypt to the Africa Cup of Nations final and securing Liverpool’s return to the UEFA Champions League, earned him the well-deserved accolade.
Salah’s Stellar Year
Salah’s journey to becoming the African Footballer of the Year was paved with exceptional performances. Let’s take a closer look at the highlights of his 2017 season:
- Record-Breaking Goalscorer: Salah enjoyed a prolific season with Liverpool, becoming the club’s top scorer in a single Premier League season.
- Leading Egypt’s Resurgence: Salah played a pivotal role in Egypt’s qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, ending the nation’s 28-year drought.
- Individual Brilliance: His mazy runs, precise finishes, and ability to create scoring opportunities captivated fans and pundits alike.
Salah’s achievements in 2017 solidified his status as one of the best footballers in the world and inspired a new generation of African talent.
bbc african footballer of the year 2018 live
A Legacy of Excellence
The African Footballer of the Year award is not simply about individual brilliance; it’s a testament to the growth and development of African football on the global stage. Salah’s victory in 2017, along with the impressive performances of the other nominees, showcased the incredible talent emerging from the continent.
The 2017 award ceremony was a celebration of African football, highlighting the passion, skill, and determination that make the continent a hotbed of footballing talent. It was a night to remember, a night where Mohamed Salah etched his name into the history books as the African Footballer of the Year.