Super Falcons and Barcelona Femeni striker, Asisat Oshoala, has been nominated for the prestigious 2023 Ballon d’Or Award in the Women’s Player of the Year category.
This nomination follows a remarkable season in which she showcased her exceptional talent, scoring 29 goals and providing 7 assists in 46 matches.
Oshoala’s outstanding performances also played a pivotal role in Barcelona’s triumphant campaign, securing titles such as the Champions League, La Liga, and the Spanish Super Cup.
Oshoala finds herself in the esteemed company of fellow Barcelona Femeni stars, Mapi Leon, Aitana Bonmati, and Fridolina Rolfo, along with other standout talents from the women’s football world, including French stalwart Wendie Renard, England’s Mary Earps, prolific 26-year-old Jamaican and Manchester City Forward, Khadija Shaw, VFL Wolfsburg forward Alexandra Popp, Japanese midfielder Yui Hasegawa, Dutch midfielder Jill Roord, and England’s Rachael Daly.
“Our heartfelt congratulations to Asisat Oshoala for her outstanding achievements. It has been an incredible journey watching her grow and excel in the world of football. Plug Sports couldn’t be prouder of her remarkable talent and dedication. Asisat is a true inspiration, and her success is well-deserved,” Lanre Vigo, Head of Plug Sports commented on Oshoala’s nomination.
In addition to her on-field prowess, Asisat Oshoala’s contributions to the community have not gone unnoticed. In July of this year, the 28-year-old Oshoala, also known as the Women’s African Player of the Year, was announced as one of the five nominees for the prestigious Socrates Award. This accolade was introduced in 2022 to recognize players for their outstanding charity work beyond the realm of football. Oshoala was nominated for her commendable efforts through the football academy she established in Nigeria, named after her.
Furthermore, Oshoala’s impact on the global stage was amplified during the 2023 Women’s World Cup, where she made history by becoming the first African player to score in three Women’s World Cup tournaments. Her pivotal goal came during the Super Falcons’ victory against Australia, marking a significant achievement in her illustrious career.
As the football world eagerly anticipates the 2023 Ballon d’Or ceremony, Asisat Oshoala’s nomination is a testament to her exceptional skill, dedication to her community, and her historic achievements in the sport. She continues to inspire football enthusiasts across the globe, and her journey is a source of pride for both her home country, Nigeria, and the global football community.