CAF Awards: Iwobi, Iheanacho named Youth Player and Most Promising Talent

Nigeria internationals Alex Iwobi and Kelechi Iheanacho were among stars of the round leather game that were recognized at the 2016 CAF Awards ceremony on Thursday night.

Arsenal whizkid Iwobi was named the Youth Player of the Year, while Manchester City striker Iheanacho was named the best youngster in Africa after winning the Most Promising Talent at the annual event hosted in Abuja.

Iwobi, who beat Ghana duo Sandra Owusu-Ansah (Ghana & Supreme Ladies) and Ghana U17 captain Eric Ayiah for the award, is the third Nigerian to win the award, following Falcons’ striker Asisat Oshoala (2014) and Wolfsburg new signing Victor Osimhen (2015).

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Iheanacho saw off competition from Elia Meschak (DR Congo & TP Mazembe) and Naby Keita (Guinea & RB Leipzig) to win in the category for the second time in his career.

Recall that Obafemi Martins, Obi Mikel, Taye Taiwo and Oghenekaro Etebo are other Nigerian players that have won the Most Promising Talent of the Year in the past.

Iwobi and Iheanacho however were not available to receive the awards themselves due to commitments with their clubs. While Iwobi’s Arsenal will be hosting Preston on Saturday in the FA Cup, Iheanacho’s Manchester City will be facing West Ham on Friday in the same competition.

 

 

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