Nigerian football fans took to social media in jubilant celebration of Ademola Lookman’s impressive 14th-place finish at the 2024 Ballon d’Or Ceremony held in Paris on Monday night.
The event sparked a familiar wave of banter directed at their long-time rivals, the Ghanaians.
The rivalry between Nigeria and Ghana extends well beyond sports, with fans often seizing opportunities to engage in playful jabs.
Lookman’s finish as the only African player on the 30-man shortlist provided a perfect occasion for Nigerians to mock their neighbors.
While Manchester City midfielder Rodri claimed the prestigious Golden Ball for his standout contributions to both his club and the Spanish national team, Lookman’s placement drew attention as a significant achievement.
He ranked as the second-highest-rated Serie A player on the list, following Inter Milan’s Lautaro Martinez, who finished seventh.
Reactions poured in as Nigerian fans congratulated Lookman for his accomplishment, many of whom included cheeky remarks aimed at Ghanaians.
Seun PP expressed his delight on X, stating, “Congratulations to our very own Lookman for your achievement as one of the best players in the world. My Charlie brothers, how market?”
Ethan Emmanuel added, “Ghana wishes that Lookman was from Accra, but we know that was just a wish.”
Another fan, 99Kriistien, humorously tweeted, “Ghana people go think say na church programme,”
while Daevid quipped, “Pain went straight to Sapafrikans and Ghana.”
Other fans joined in the light-hearted mockery.
“Ghana can’t relate! Congratulations, champ,” wrote Zee.
Oladapo Olayinka cheekily asked, “Ghana brazaa, where is the cup massa?”
Justice Osabuohien chimed in, suggesting, “Ghana go think, say na cinema, he go watch,” while Delis wondered, “Where is Ghana?” Engr. Olami concluded, “Ghana should please come outside.”
Lookman’s notable year has also positioned him as a frontrunner for the 2024 CAF Player of the Year award, thanks to his stellar performances during the Africa Cup of Nations and a historic Europa League achievement with Atalanta.
Last season, he made headlines by becoming the first player to score a hat-trick in a European club competition final, contributing to Atalanta’s victory over Bayer Leverkusen.
With a record of 11 goals and seven assists in 31 Serie A matches, Lookman’s nomination and subsequent recognition at the Ballon d’Or ceremony reflect his exceptional talent and rising profile in the world of football.
