Osimhen recollects life before CAF player of the year award win

Super Eagles and Napoli striker, Victor Osimhen, has celebrated his win of the 2023 Confederation of African Football Player of the Year Award, stating that the joy in his heart cannot be contained as “becoming a Treasure in Africa and World Football was a wild dream.”

The player who emerged as the first Nigerian to win the award since Nwankwo Kanu in 1999, expressed his gratitude in a post on his X handle on Tuesday.

Reminiscing his days of humble beginning, he wrote, “As a young boy who came from the streets of Olusosun, who had to hawk in traffic almost every day of the week while growing in order to survive the numerous challenges my family and I were facing, becoming a Treasure in Africa and World Football was a wild dream. Words can’t express the joy in my heart, this is a very special moment for me.

“My football journey has been a rollercoaster of highs, tough lows, and emotions. The goals, echoes, and jubilation of victories keep me going even when the criticism, hate and pain of defeats hit me hard in the chest.

“The support of my amazing family, my fans most especially my Nigerian supporters, and the love for the beautiful game of football motivates me to aim higher daily.

“Losing my dear parents in the course of this journey leaves a scar in my heart as they have always been my major driving force for success since I was a kid, may their souls continue to rest in peace.

“To my fans and Nigerian supporters, your dedication in supporting me on the good days and bad days does not go unnoticed, even amidst the arrows of hatred thrown at me y’all still stood by my side. Winning the CAF Best African Player 2023 is a testament to my hard work, your love and support.

“I am so proud of myself for achieving this prestigious award. Thank you CAF, to all the coaches I have played under both local and international, your wisdom and knowledge have played huge roles in guiding my footballing career, thank you so much. I am sure my parents in heaven are smiling at me, this is for you.”

He also congratulated Asisat Oshoala and Chiamaka Nnadozie on their awards of 2023 CAF Women’s Player of the Year and Woman Goalkeeper of the Year, respectively.

PUNCH