Following his spectacular performance for Atalanta over the weekend, Nigeria's Ademola Lookman will be heading to the Ballon d'Or ceremony as the only African candidate among the 30-man shortlist.

The 27-year-old bagged two goals and two assists as Gian Piero Gasperini's side thumped Hellas Verona 6-1 at the Gewiss Stadium in Serie A on Saturday, October 26.

Lookman's stellar performance underscores his remarkable 2023/2024 season, earning him a nomination for the prestigious 2024 Ballon d'Or award, which is scheduled to be held later today (Monday, October 28).

“It’s special being on the list and even more special being the only African,” Lookman told BBC Sport Africa.

“We have achieved great things this year, with club and country. To be recognised as one of the contenders is a great achievement.”

Lookman starred after scoring a historic hat-trick in the Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen to guide La Dea to their first-ever European title.

He concluded last season with 17 goals and 10 assists across all competitions.

The former RB Leipzig forward also netted 3 goals in the 2023 African Cup of Nations to help Nigeria reach the final.