‘Great example to our youths’– Ex-Dortmund and Ajax star on Osimhen and Oshoala’s Ballon d’Or nomination

Nigerian international players, Victor Osimhen and Asisat Oshoala, have achieved a historic feat by both being nominated for the 2023 Ballon d’Or award

Former Super Eagles legend, Sunday Oliseh, has showered praise on Nigerian football stars Victor Osimhen and Asisat Oshoala for their recent Ballon d’Or nominations,Soccernet.ng reports.

Super Falcons and the Super Eagles forwards have been recognized for their outstanding performances in top European leagues.

Osimhen, a key player for the Super Eagles of Nigeria, has left an indelible mark on the Italian Serie A.

His remarkable achievements include breaking George Weah’s long-standing goal record and claiming the coveted Serie A top scorer title.

During the 2022-23 season, Osimhen netted an impressive 26 goals in Serie A matches, in addition to five goals in the UEFA Champions League and seven goals in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers for the Super Eagles.

His exceptional contributions played a pivotal role in Napoli clinching the Italian Scudetto after a 33-year wait.

Osimhen’s Ballon d’Or nomination places him alongside football luminaries like Lionel Messi, Karim Benzema, Vinicius Junior, Kylian Mbappe, and Kevin De Bruyne, among others.

On the other hand, Asisat Oshoala, a prolific goal poacher for Barcelona Femeni in the Liga F, has earned her place in the female category of the Ballon d’Or nominations.

Oshoala’s exceptional performances have not only benefited her club but have also propelled the Super Falcons forward. Her impressive contributions include winning the treble with Barcelona and leading the Super Falcons to the round of 16 in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Sunday Oliseh, himself a former nominee for the prestigious award in 1998, took to social media to celebrate the achievements of Osimhen and Oshoala.

He commended both players, describing them as great examples to the Nigerian youths and sending his blessings their way.

“These two players are great examples to our youths. god bless them!“ he wrote.

This historic nomination marks a significant milestone for Nigeria, as it becomes the first country in Africa to have both male and female football players nominated for the prestigious Ballon d’Or award in the same year.