2024 has been a thrilling year for Nigerian sports as the country’s top athletes continue to grow from strength to strength.
Here are the 5 unforgettable Nigerian sporting moments of 2024:
1. Nigeria’s AFCON Heartbreak
Nigeria’s Super Eagles had a thrilling run at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023, but ultimately fell short, losing 2-1 to Ivory Coast in the final.
Despite William Troost-Ekong’s early goal, the hosts staged a comeback, with Franck Kessie equalizing and Sebastien Haller scoring a late winner.
Ivory Coast’s victory marked a stunning turnaround, and Nigeria was left to ponder what could have been.
2. Finidi George’s Turbulent Tenure
Former Super Eagles coach Finidi George had a brief but tumultuous stint, resigning in June due to lack of support from the Nigeria Football Federation.
His tenure was marked by a public feud with star striker Victor Osimhen, who took to social media to express his discontent.
Finidi’s departure highlighted the challenges facing Nigerian football.
3. Ademola Lookman’s Europa League Heroics
Ademola Lookman made history by becoming the first player to score a hat-trick in a UEFA Europa League final.
His three goals led Atalanta to a stunning 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen, securing the Italian side’s first major title since 1963. Lookman’s brilliance will be remembered for years to come.
4. D’Tigress Shine at Paris 2024
Nigeria’s D’Tigress made history at the Paris 2024 Olympics, reaching the basketball quarterfinals for the first time. Led by Murjanatu Musa, the team impressed with tenacious defense and notable wins over Australia.
Coach Rena Wakama was named Best Coach of the Women’s Olympic Basketball Tournament, highlighting D’Tigress’ remarkable turnaround.
5. Lookman wins CAF Player of the Year
Finally, the highlight of the year was Ademola Lookman’s big individual win for Nigeria. The 27-year-old was rewarded for an incredible 2024 with Atalanta and the Super Eagles of Nigeria.
The Atalanta striker had a stellar year, scoring three goals and providing two assists as Nigeria reached their eighth Africa Cup of Nations final in February.
His hat-trick also secured the UEFA Europa League title for Atalanta against Bayer Leverkusen in May.
