Despite falling agonizingly short in the final, Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong claimed the 2023 AFCON Most Valuable Player award on Sunday, marking a bittersweet ending to his standout tournament.
The 30-year-old centre-back marshalled Nigeria’s defense brilliantly throughout and led the Super Eagles to their first final since 2013. Troost-Ekong also etched his name in the history books by setting a new defender record, netting three goals in the continental showpiece.
However, his opening header wasn’t enough in the final as hosts Ivory Coast pulled off a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory. Troost-Ekong couldn’t prevent late goals from Franck Kessie and Sebastien Haller as Nigeria were left heartbroken, their quest for a fourth title halted at the last hurdle.
Emilio Nsue of Equatorial Guinea claimed the Golden Boot after his five goals, including a sensational hat-trick against Ivory Coast in the group stage. At 34 years old, Nsue became the oldest player to score a treble in AFCON history with his heroic performance.
Ivory Coast interim manager Emerse Fae took home Best Coach honors after masterminding the Elephants’ remarkable campaign turnaround and coaching them to a famous final triumph. Emerging winger Simon Adingra was named Best Young Player for his electrifying displays.
In other awards, South Africa goalkeeper Ronwen Williams was crowned Best Goalkeeper for saving four penalties in their sensational shootout victory over Cape Verde. South Africa also collected the Fair Play gong to cap off an impressive tournament.
The individual awards underlined the abundance of talent and captivating performances that lit up the 2023 AFCON, making it a tournament to remember despite the backdrop of tragic events.
List of awards
Best player
William Ekong (Nigeria)
Best keeper
Ronwen Williams (South Africa)
Best coach
Emerse Fae (Cote d’Ivoire)
Best young player
Simon Adingra (Cote d’Ivoire)
Top scorer
Emilio Nsue (Equatorial Guinea), 5 goals
Gelson Dala (Angola), 4 goals
Mostafa Mohamed (Egypt), 4 goals
Fair play
South Africa
