African Women’s Football Evolution: Lorretta Sadoh Discusses Oshoala’s Omission from CAF Awards 2024

Nigeria international Asisat Oshoala has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on African women's football over the past decade.

Her consistency and excellence on both the club and international stages have solidified her status as one of Africa's finest players. With six African Player of the Year awards to her name, Oshoala has been a true beacon of inspiration for young girls across Africa.

Her achievements—winning titles and accolades on both the continent and globally—are a testament to her extraordinary talent and work ethic.

Reflecting on her remarkable journey, former Nigeria international Sadoh Loerreta, emphasized that Oshoala’s impact goes beyond statistics.

"The decade has been an amazing one for Asisat Oshoala. She has earned her place in the echelon of African women's football," Sadoh told SportsBoom.com.

"She has been consistent for both club and country. She has won everything there is to win continentally for both club and country. She is an obvious symbol of excellence and inspiration for young girls all over Africa and beyond."

Oshoala has become an icon in women's football, a role model whose influence extends well beyond the pitch.

The Significance of Exclusion: A Changing Landscape

While Oshoala’s contributions to the sport have been immense, her exclusion from the CAF Player of the Year shortlist for 2024 marks a significant shift in African women’s football.

The South Africa 2010 Women's Africa Cup of Nations winner, sees her absence as a reflection of the growing talent pool across the continent. “Oshoala's exclusion from the 2024 Shortlist simply signifies that there is a rise in new generations of talent in Africa,” Sadoh said.

“This is something we should all be proud of. As much as I am a Nigerian, it shows that the new generation of young ladies in Africa is doing big things around the world.”

This change, while unexpected for many, signals the emergence of a fresh wave of talent. Oshoala’s dominance over the past five years has been unquestionable, but as a Masters Degree holder in International Studies put it, “change is one thing that is constant in life.” 

The Rise of New Talent: Barbra Banda and the Changing Narrative

Zambia's Barbra Banda was the standout winner at the CAF Awards 2024, claiming the prestigious Women's Player of the Year accolade.

Her victory is emblematic of a broader shift in African women’s football, where nations outside the traditional powerhouses are now stepping up to challenge the status quo. The ex-Super Falcons pointed to players like Banda, along with Tabitha Chawinga and Rachael Kundananji, as prime examples of how the narrative is changing.

“Players like Barbra Banda, Rachael Kundananji, and Chawinga have changed the narrative in African women's football,” Sadoh explained. “You can tell by the record signings they’ve had and the impact they’re making at their club sides.”

The rise of these new stars signals a generational shift in African women’s football, as countries like Zambia, Morocco, and others increasingly compete with established powerhouses like Nigeria and Cameroon.

Sadoh expects a fiercely competitive WAFCON in the coming years, with more teams believing that the title is within their reach.

“For the next WAFCON, countries like Zambia have proven themselves to be a powerhouse. I’m not expecting any less competition than we experienced in the last edition,” Sadoh noted. "It’s going to be tough and highly competitive, and I’m looking forward to it."

Oshoala’s Legacy: Paving the Way for Future Stars

Despite her exclusion from the CAF Awards 2024 shortlist, Oshoala’s legacy remains firmly intact. Loerreta praised her career and the doors she has opened for the next generation of African women players.

"Oshoala is the first African woman to win the Champions League not once, but three times. She’s also the first African woman to be nominated for the Ballon d’Or, and the first to score in three World Cups," the US-based ex-international noted.

These landmark achievements are a testament to Oshoala’s pioneering role in African football, and her influence extends far beyond her individual success.

Oshoala's story has inspired countless players, including those like Banda and Chawinga, who now shine on the global stage. Her work with her foundation, which encourages and supports young girls in pursuing football, further underscores her role as a positive role model. Sadoh believes that Oshoala's influence has helped shift global perceptions of African players.

"The rest of the world sees African players as quality players now—players who can deliver and make an impact," she said. It’s a good time for African women’s football, and we are all proud of Asisat."

Broader Perspectives: The Competitive Shift in African Women’s Football

As the spotlight shifts to emerging stars like Banda and Chawinga, the competitiveness of African women’s football continues to rise. Sadoh acknowledged that the landscape is now more competitive than ever before.

"From time to time, we will always have great players," Sadoh said. "The emergence of these players has changed the landscape, and the competition in WAFCON is now fierce. Everyone is a potential champion at this point."

This evolving dynamic will undoubtedly impact Nigeria’s quest to reclaim dominance at the next WAFCON. While Lorretta remains confident in Nigeria’s ability to compete, she acknowledges the growing challenge posed by other nations.

“Nigeria will continue to be a superpower on the continent,” Sadoh stated. “I hope that in the next edition, we can show that and win back the cup. But it will be highly competitive.”

As African women’s football continues to grow, the next WAFCON promises to be an exciting and unpredictable tournament, where no team can take success for granted.