Former Monaco forward, Victor Ikpeba, has slammed the reaction of Moroccan fans following Ademola Lookman’s victory at the 2024 CAF Player of the Year award, Soccernet.ng reports.
A video circulating on social media from the ceremony spotted Moroccan fans walking out as the Super Eagles winger was named the winner, edging out notable contenders like their countryman Achraf Hakimi, as well as Serhou Guirassy, Ronwen Williams, and others.
Watch the video here:
Morrocans leaving the CAF Awards venue immediately after Ademola Lookman was announced as winner.
They thought Hakimi would win pic.twitter.com/s3SyEf54J3
— (@HeDontMakeNoise) December 17, 2024
The former Super Eagles attacker, Ikpeba, was visibly upset with the disrespect shown to Lookman’s well-deserved triumph, and has urged CAF to reconsider holding such an event in Morocco.
“They shouldn’t take the event to Morocco again. It’s not fair. We’ve seen awards like the Ballon d’Or and others, and it’s not like this. Someone has to always win,” Ikpeba stated, speaking on Brila FM.
The Atalanta forward scored three goals and provided one assist during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations tournament, which was crucial in their progress to the final of the competition.
Despite the unsporting behaviour of some fans, the former Borussia Dortmund striker praised the integrity of those who voted for Lookman, having noted his impactful contributions to both his club and country.
“Those who voted for Lookman did it with class and were very honest in their selection process,” Ikpeba added.
Lookman’s victory made him the sixth Nigerian to win the prestigious award, following in the footsteps of Kanu Nwankwo, Emmanuel Ammuneke, Ikpeba, Rashidi Yekini, and his teammate Victor Osimhen.