Super Eagles and Napoli striker Victor Osimhen has been ranked in 8th place in the 2023 Men’s Ballon d’Or award.
Osimhen becomes the highest-ranked Nigerian player in the history of the Ballon d’Or award.
Osimhen’s journey also carries immense significance for Nigerian football. He serves as an inspiration to aspiring footballers in Nigeria and across Africa, proving that with talent, hard work, and the right opportunities, one can rise to the pinnacle of the sport.
As Victor Osimhen continues to make waves on the international stage with the Nigerian national team, the future looks incredibly promising. His ranking as number 8 in the world is not just a celebration of his current success but also a nod to the immense potential he possesses.
The record was initially held by Nwankwo Kanu, who was ranked 11th in 1996.
Osimhen was ranked ahead of the likes of Robert Lewandowski, current holder Karim Benzema, Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, and Mohamed Salah in this year’s award.
The 24-year-old made history as the first Napoli player to make the top 10 of the Ballon d’Or rankings.
This is the best result ever for a Napoli player at the award, since Ruud Krol who held the previous record placed 15th in 1980.
Osimhen contributed to Napoli’s first Serie A title in 33 years becoming the 2022-23 top-scorer in the league with 26 goals in 32 appearances.
In the women’s category, Super Falcons and Barcelona striker Asisat Oshoala finished in 20th position.
Meanwhile, Argentina 2022 World Cup winner Lionel Messi won his eight Ballon d’Or award on the night.
Messi beat Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe to second and third place respectively.
The 2023 Ballon d’Or award, presented by France Football, took place at Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, France.
Meanwhile, Victor Osimhen’s agent, Roberto Calenda has lavishes praise on Victor Osimhen after the Nigerian remarkable Ballon d’Or achievement.
Calenda celebrated Osimhen’s feat on his X handle.
“8th in Ballon d’Or ranking!
You made history and the future is yours…Victor is coming!!!
Congrats @victorosimhen9,” he wrote.
