Boniface, Orban fall short in race for Ebony Shoe Award

• The coveted Ebony Shoe, also known as the Golden Shoe Award, has found its latest recipient in Genk's sensational midfielder, Mike Trésor Ndayishimiye, leaving Nigerian talents Victor Boniface and Gift Orban trailing behind in the prestigious contest.

The annual award recognizes the outstanding player of African descent in the Belgian Pro League.

Boniface, a key figure for Royale Union Saint-Gilloise, secured a commendable second-place finish. At the same time, the prolific goal-scorer from KAA Gent, Orban, claimed the third position on the podium.

Boniface's nomination was well-deserved, as he showcased his prowess throughout the season, amassing an impressive tally of nine goals and eight assists in 35 matches, playoffs included.

Not to be overshadowed, Orban's exceptional debut season in the Belgian league couldn't be ignored.

The gifted forward demonstrated his goal-scoring prowess, netting an impressive 15 goals and contributing two assists in just 14 games for KAA Gent.

However, it was Ndayishimiye who ultimately emerged victorious, earning the admiration of both fans and pundits alike. The talented attacking midfielder, eligible to represent Burundi through his father, has been a standout performer for Genk throughout the season.

His record-breaking 23 assists in the Belgian top flight solidified his claim to the coveted Ebony Shoe. Ndayishimiye fended off stiff competition from his Genk teammates Joseph Paintsil and Bilal El Khannouss to secure the prestigious accolade.

The last Nigerian to be crowned with the Ebony Shoe was none other than Paul Onuachu, who claimed the honour in 2021.