- As the highly anticipated 2023 EaglesTracker Awards draw closer, five exceptional young talents have emerged as the top contenders for the Nigerian Young Player of the Season Award.
These prodigious footballers, all aged 23 and under, captured the hearts of fans with their scintillating performances throughout the 2022/2023 season, leaving no doubt about their immense potential.
First on the list is the 23-year-old defender, Hamdi Akujobi, who dazzled on the pitch for Almere City FC.
Akujobi's five goals and two assists in 39 league appearances played a pivotal role in Almere City's promotion to the Eredivisie, and his consistency earned him a well-deserved nomination.
Next is Muhamed Tijani, a 22-year-old sensation who lit up the Czech top flight with FC Banik Ostrava.
Tijani's knack for finding the back of the net was on full display as he netted eight goals and provided two assists in 27 league outings.
Another formidable contender is 22-year-old Victor Boniface, whose performances for Royale Union Saint-Gilloise were remarkable.
Boniface played a crucial role in his team's pursuit of the Belgian league title. He stood tall as the top scorer in the Europa League, an unprecedented feat for a Nigerian player in Europe's second-tier competition.
20-year-old Gift Orban also caught the attention of football enthusiasts with his explosive displays for KAA Gent in the Belgian Pro League and the Europa League.
Orban's remarkable tally of 20 goals in just 21 games has placed him in high demand, making him one of the most sought-after young strikers in Europe.
Finally, there is Igoh Ogbu, the 23-year-old defensive stalwart who played a significant role in SK Slavia Prague's stellar campaign. Ogbu's outstanding contributions at the back were instrumental in Slavia Prague boasting the best defensive record in the Czech Liga's regular season.
