Bounou Claims African Goalkeeper of the Year Award in Glitzy Marrakech Ceremony

Tuesday 12 December 2023 - 09:45

By: Dakir Madiha

Bounou Claims African Goalkeeper of the Year Award in Glitzy Marrakech Ceremony

The prestigious Palais des Congrès in Morocco radiated an air of celebration and panache last night as the continent's football elite adorned themselves in their most dazzling kits for the landmark CAF Awards 2023. Amidst the constellations of talent that graced the auditorium, one man emerged as the shining star, securing the coveted African Goalkeeper of the Year award – none other than Yassine Bounou.

Exuding grace in a sleek tuxedo, the Moroccan shot-stopper claimed football's highest individual honor for an African goalkeeper, displaying a remarkable poise even in the spotlight of victory. While currently guarding the nets for Saudi giants Al Hilal, it is Bounou's heroic World Cup exploits in Qatar, donning the red flag of the Atlas Lions, that will be etched in memory for years to come.

Bounou faced formidable competition for the award, contending with the steely Inter Milan guardian André Onana from Cameroon and Egypt's ageless gloveman, Mohamed El Shenawy, who tends the goal for league leaders Al Ahly. However, it was Bounou's cat-like reflexes and commanding presence during Morocco's history-making World Cup run that evidently captured the imagination of voters this year.

As the curtain gracefully falls on another enchanting CAF Awards ceremony, Bounou can now return to his new Saudi abode adorned with another medal to polish and a continent full of admirers. For the moment, the continental crown for the best goalkeeper securely rests in his grasp.