Ghanaian defender Comfort Yeboah experienced a miss in the race for the CAF Women's Young Player of the Year award, with the honor going to Nesryne El Chad, a talented Moroccan player who made history by becoming the inaugural recipient at the 2023 CAF Awards ceremony held in Marrakech on Monday.
Surpassing nominees Comfort Yeboah from Ghana and Nigeria's Deborah Abiodun, El Chad's exceptional talent and unwavering dedication were recognized with this groundbreaking honor, marking a triumphant culmination of her remarkable performances in 2023.
El Chad's stellar achievements haven't gone unnoticed, with her notable contributions leading to her being entrusted with the captain's armband on multiple occasions. This underscores not only her on-field prowess but also her leadership skills and maturity that belie her years.
The young prodigy has been on a record-breaking spree, previously holding the distinction of being the youngest-ever scorer for both Morocco and the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. Achieving this feat at just 19 years and 114 days old in July, El Chad's latest accomplishment further solidifies her status as one of Africa's brightest rising stars in women's football.
For Comfort Yeboah, this nomination marked her first recognition in a prestigious award category. Deservedly so, her stellar performances for Ghanaian champions Ampem Darkoa Ladies, both domestically and internationally, contributed to her inclusion in the running for the CAF Women's Young Player of the Year. Notably impressive during the recent CAF Women's Champions League, Yeboah's nomination reflects her significant impact on the pitch.
While Nesryne El Chad emerged victorious in this instance, Comfort Yeboah's nomination and commendable contributions affirm her standing as a formidable talent in African women's football.
The recognition of both players underscores the depth of talent and the promising future for women's football on the continent. As the journey continues for these rising stars, their achievements serve as inspiration for aspiring players and a testament to the growth and competitiveness of women's football in Africa.
