Super Eagles Arokodare Wins Top African Player in Belgium

Super Eagles striker and KRC Genk forward, Tolu Arokodare, has been named the winner of the prestigious 2024/25 Ebony Shoe Award, which is presented annually to the best African player in Belgium.

The 24-year-old clinched the award on Monday following an outstanding season in the Belgian Jupiler Pro League, where he scored 20 goals, making him the second-highest scorer in the competition.

Arokodare played a pivotal role in helping Genk finish top of the table in the regular 2024/25 season, although the club’s title hopes faltered during the championship play-offs.

His achievement marks a historic milestone as he becomes the seventh Nigerian to win the award. The first since Paul Onuachu in 2021. Other Nigerian recipients of the Ebony Shoe include Daniel Amokachi, Victor Ikpeba, Godwin Opara, and Celestine Babayaro.

Arokodare edged out strong competition to claim the honor, including Noah Sidiki of Union Saint-Gilloise, his Genk teammate Zakaria El Ouahdi, Union’s Promise David, and fellow Nigerian Raphael Onyedika.

Born in Festac Town, Lagos, Arokodare made his debut for the Super Eagles in 2025. He was subbed in for Victor Osimhen during a 2026 World Cup qualifier against Rwanda, and featured again days later in a 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe as part of the same campaign.