In an exciting development for Australian football fans, two of the nation’s top talents, Sam Kerr and Mathew Leckie, have been nominated for the Asian Football Confederation’s (AFC) Player of the Year awards. The nominations span both the women’s and men’s categories, marking a significant recognition of their outstanding contributions to the sport. In addition to Kerr and Leckie, the shortlist for the best coach category includes the national team’s manager, Graham Arnold. This trio’s nominations reflect the growing prowess of Australian football on the international stage.
Sam Kerr: Leading the Charge in Women’s Football
Sam Kerr, the prolific Chelsea striker, has been selected as one of the top three contenders for the AFC Women’s Player of the Year award. This prestigious recognition follows a remarkable career that has seen her consistently excel on both domestic and international fronts.
Kerr’s nomination places her in illustrious company, as she competes against China’s Zhang Linyan and Japan’s Saki Kumagai. Kumagai, notably, secured the award in 2019, making her a formidable opponent in this year’s race. The three-way competition promises an intense showdown in the quest for the title.
Mathew Leckie: A Rising Star on the Men’s Stage
On the men’s side, Mathew Leckie has secured his place among the finalists for the AFC Men’s Player of the Year award. Leckie’s journey to this nomination has been characterized by perseverance and impactful performances, none more so than his memorable goal against Denmark in the 2022 World Cup, which propelled Australia into the knockout rounds.
Leckie faces formidable competition from Qatar’s Almoez Ali and Saudi Arabia’s Salem Al Dawsari, both of whom have established themselves as key figures in their respective national teams. The race for the prestigious title promises to be closely contested, with each nominee bringing their unique set of skills and accomplishments to the forefront.
Graham Arnold: Navigating Success on the Sidelines
National team boss Graham Arnold has been named on the shortlist for the AFC Coach of the Year award, further highlighting Australia’s presence on the international football stage. Arnold’s strategic acumen and leadership have played a pivotal role in the development and success of the Australian national team.
Arnold faces competition from Japan’s Hajime Moriyasu, whose tactical brilliance led Japan to victories over football giants Germany and Spain at the World Cup, and Saudi Arabia’s Saad Al Shehri, who guided the under-23 team to an Asian title in the previous year. The recognition of Arnold’s coaching prowess underscores the importance of strong leadership in achieving success at the highest level of the sport.
The International Contenders: A Global Flavor
In addition to the Australian nominees, the AFC has recognized a trio of Europe-based players for the Asian International Player of the Year award. This category celebrates the contributions of players of Asian origin plying their trade in some of Europe’s top leagues.
Mehdi Taremi, an Iranian sensation representing Porto, has made a significant impact in European football. Taremi’s inclusion in the shortlist reflects his consistent performance and ability to make a difference at a high level.
Brighton and Japan winger Kaoru Mitoma brings a touch of flair to the list with his exciting style of play. His nomination is a testament to his skill and the growing influence of Japanese football on the global stage.
Kim Min-jae, the current Bayern Munich defender, rounds out the trio. His nomination showcases the expanding reach of Asian football talent in top European clubs, underlining the diverse range of players competing for this prestigious accolade.
A Return to Normalcy: The Awards Ceremony
The eagerly anticipated AFC Player of the Year awards ceremony is set to take place in Doha on October 31st, marking a return to normalcy after a hiatus since 2019 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Football enthusiasts from across the continent and beyond will eagerly await the unveiling of the winners in these various categories.
The nominations of Sam Kerr, Mathew Leckie, and Graham Arnold for the AFC Player of the Year awards underscore the growing influence and talent of Australian football on the global stage. As these athletes and coach vie for top honors, they represent not only their nation but also the collective aspirations of football fans in Australia and throughout Asia. The upcoming awards ceremony promises to be a memorable celebration of football excellence, marking a pivotal moment in the careers of these remarkable individuals and their contributions to the beautiful game.
Read More: