Top ten Super Eagles stars in 2024: Who was the best?
2024 has been a remarkable year for Nigerian football. The country’s top players have made headlines and achieved historic milestones. From individual awards to club victories, these players have showcased the talent and depth of Nigerian football.
Nigeria celebrated another CAF Men’s Player of the Year win, with Ademola Lookman following in Victor Osimhen’s footsteps as Africa’s best. The Super Eagles also secured a commendable second-place finish at AFCON 2023.
SportsRation correspondent Nsikakabasi Akpan presents 10 of Nigeria Super Eagles finest footballers who have shone brightly in 2024:
10. Calvin Bassey
Calvin Bassey continued to impress at Fulham after moving from Ajax. He played a major role in Fulham’s respectable Premier League finish and was indispensable for Nigeria at AFCON, playing all seven games. This season, he is ever present for Fulham. A good year for the defender who endured much criticism in 2023.
Nsikakabasi Akpan: “Bassey’s physicality and composure have made him a rock at the back. He’s a leader in the making.”
9. Wilfred Ndidi
Ndidi rediscovered his form in 2024, helping Leicester City secure Premier League promotion. With six goals and six assists, he had his best season yet and remains a key figure in Leicester’s midfield this season.
Nsikakabasi Akpan: “Ndidi’s return to form has been crucial for Leicester and Nigeria. His work rate and defensive intelligence stand out.”
8. Maduka Okoye
Okoye proved his worth at Udinese, becoming a reliable presence in goal. He featured in 36 of Udinese’s 37 matches and saved one of three penalties faced.
Nsikakabasi Akpan: “Okoye’s performances in Serie A show his growth. He has revived his career in 2024 after a dark period at Watford.”
7. Victor Osimhen
Osimhen’s 2024 may not have been his best, but his numbers were still impressive. He scored 17 goals for Napoli and has been in great form at Galatasaray, with 12 goals and 4 assists in 15 appearances.
Nsikakabasi Akpan: “Even in an average year by his standards, Osimhen remains a goal machine. His move to Galatasaray has rejuvenated him.”
6. Stanley Nwabali
Stanley Nwabali shone at AFCON 2023, conceding just three goals from open play and delivering heroics in the semi-final shootout against South Africa. He has been consistent for Chippa United in the DSTV Premiership.
Nsikakabasi Akpan: “Nwabali’s rise has been phenomenal. His calmness under pressure is a great asset for Nigeria.”
5. Alex Iwobi
Iwobi remains one of Nigeria’s most reliable midfielders. At Fulham, he has contributed five goals and three assists this season, while his energy and creativity were vital at AFCON 2023.
Nsikakabasi Akpan: “Iwobi’s versatility makes him invaluable. His ability to create chances and defend is exceptional.”
4. Ola Aina
Ola Aina had a fantastic year, excelling for both club and country. He earned a spot in the AFCON 2023 Team of the Tournament, helping Nigeria keep four clean sheets. At Nottingham Forest, Aina has been a key player, starting all 18 Premier League games, scoring twice, and averaging 86 minutes per match.
Nsikakabasi Akpan: “Aina’s consistency is remarkable. His versatility and defensive contributions have been vital for Nottingham Forest and the Super Eagles.”
3. William Troost-Ekong
Troost-Ekong led Nigeria to the AFCON final, earning Player of the Tournament honours. His three goals, including a crucial winner against Ivory Coast, highlighted his leadership and defensive solidity.
Nsikakabasi Akpan: “Troost-Ekong’s leadership qualities are unmatched. He’s the backbone of the Super Eagles.”
2. Victor Boniface
Boniface played a key role in Bayer Leverkusen’s Bundesliga title win, scoring 21 goals and providing 10 assists. Although injury kept him out of AFCON, he has returned strongly this season.
Nsikakabasi Akpan: “Boniface’s all-round game is world-class. He’s one of Europe’s most exciting forwards.”
1. Ademola Lookman
Hail the king!!!!!! Nigeria’s best, Africa’s number one, Ademola Lookman had an unforgettable 2024, winning the CAF Player of the Year award. He starred for Atalanta, scoring a hat-trick in the Europa League final, and shone for Nigeria at AFCON 2023.
Nsikakabasi Akpan: “Lookman has been phenomenal. His performances for Atalanta and Nigeria prove he’s at the top of his game.”
These players have not only brought glory to themselves but have also made Nigeria proud on the global stage. Their achievements underline the nation’s rich footballing heritage and promise an even brighter future.
