Ballon d’Or: Incredible Super Falcons of Nigeria Striker Oshoala Ranked 16th Best in the World

• Asisat Oshoala of Nigeria finished in sixteenth position at the women's 2022 Ballon d'Or Féminin
• The Super Falcons striker was the only African that made the top 20, following her performances for club and country
• Her Barcelona Femeni teammate Alexia Putellas took home the award for a second consecutive year

Nigerian international Asisat Oshoala was ranked 16th best at the 2022 women’s Ballon d’Or. The ceremony was held in the French capital of Paris on Monday night, October 17.

The 28-year-old Super Falcons striker arrived at the Theatre du Chatelet in the company of some of her Barcelona Femeni teammates - including Alexia Putellas, who took home the award.

Oshoala was the only African that made the top 20, as she has been impressive for her Spanish club in recent times.

She was spotted arriving at the red carpet of the prestigious event with pink close-cropped hair and a white outfit.

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The former Arsenal Ladies’ forward was all smiles throughout the night, supporting her teammate who scooped the award for a second consecutive year.

However, the Ikorodu-born forward has won a record five CAF Player of the Year awards.

After collecting her trophy, Putellas said as per Sports Mole:

"I'm very happy to be back here, happy and pleased. A year ago I was able to win this prize and it pushed me to get even better. Without my teammates this wouldn't have been possible, I want to thank the technical staff and my coach as well."

On the night, Senegal and Bayern Munich forward Sadio Mane scooped the inaugural Socrates Humanitarian Award for his philanthropic work in his village.

Benzema wins 2022 Ballon d’Or

Sports Brief earlier reported that Karim Benzema clinched the 2022 edition of the Ballon d'Or on the back of a sterling campaign with Real Madrid, which culminated in Champions League success.

Benzema expected to win Ballon d'Or after exploits with Real Madrid

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Benzema, who was the overwhelming favourite ahead of the awards ceremony, beat competition from Bayern Munich's Sadio Mane and Robert Lewandowski of Barcelona to annex the prestigious diadem.

The Real Madrid frontman scored an outstanding 44 goals in 46 games for Los Blancos, including 15 in the UEFA Champions League.