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Belgian Pro League: Gift Orban and Victor Boniface shortlisted for Ebony Shoe Award
By Monsurah Olatunji
Nigeria international duo of Victor Boniface and Gift Orban have been nominated for the Ebony Shoe, an award given annually to the best African or African origin player in the Belgian Pro League.
For their impressive performance, both strikers embody the spirit of the Ebony Shoe Award, making them true ambassadors of African football on the European stage.
Boniface has been outstanding for Royale Union Saint-Gilloise this season, scoring 8 goals and registering seven assists in the JPL.
The 22-year-old is in his second season at Union Saint Gilloise after joining from Norwegian side FK Bodo/Glimt.
Since making his Jupiler Pro League debut against KVC Westerlo on February 11, Gift Orban has scored 11 goals and registered two assists in 12 matches for the Buffalos.
The 20-year-old joined Gent from Norwegian club Stabæk Fotball for a transfer fee worth €3.30 million in January 2023 and has been one of the brightest youngsters so far this season.
However, the two strikers will vie for the top award along with the Genk trio of Joseph Paonstil, Mike Tresor and Bilal El Khaninouss.
Victor Ikpeba, Daniel Amokachi, Godwin Okpara, Celestine Babayaro and Paul Onuachu have been previous Nigerian winners of this prestigious individual prize.
Regardless of the outcome, their nominations serve as a testament to the wealth of talent that Nigeria continues to produce, solidifying its reputation as a breeding ground for exceptional footballers.
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