The former Arsenal and Liverpool striker is the most successful African female player in the history of the game
Super Falcons forward Asisat Oshoala attributes her excellence and dominance in Africa’s women’s football to her unwavering commitment to consistency throughout her career, Soccernet.ng reports.
The accolades speak volumes, as Oshoala clinched a historic sixth CAF Women’s Player of The Year award, the latest addition to her illustrious collection. The prestigious honour was bestowed upon her at the ceremony held in Marrakesh, Morocco, just this month.
Not a stranger to the limelight, Oshoala previously clinched the CAF Women’s Player of The Year award in 2014, 2016, 2017, 2019, and 2022.
This time, the 29-year-old outshone competitors Thembi Kgatlana of South Africa and Barbara Banda of Zambia to secure her latest triumph.
Throughout the year under review, Oshoala showcased brilliance both at the club and international levels.
A pivotal force in Nigeria’s remarkable journey at the 2023 Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, she also played a crucial role in Barcelona Ladies’ triumphs, securing victories in La Liga and the UEFA Women’s Champions League. The Super Falcons star netted an impressive 21 goals in the league.
At the World Cup earlier this year, Oshoala hit another milestone as the former Arsenal attacker became the first female African player to score in three World Cup finals. This feat was accomplished during Nigeria’s thrilling 3-2 victory over co-hosts Australia.
During a homecoming event held in her honor on Monday, Oshoala, who plies her trade with Barcelona Feminine, attributed her sustained excellence to a simple yet profound principle – a profound love for the game.
Speaking at the event, Oshoala said, “I love my job, I love what I do, I try to be consistent, which is actually one of the most difficult things to do.
“It takes dedication, and I tell myself every day that I want to be better than who I was yesterday.”
Oshoala, who has five league goals in eight appearances, is spending the time in Nigeria during the festive season as the Spanish women’s league is on a mid-season break.