African News

Katongo named Africa's best

Katongo: In action for Zambia

Christopher Katongo has been named the 2012 BBC African Footballer of the Year.

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The 30-year-old Zambia captain, who currently plays for Chinese Super League side Henan Construction, lifted the coveted award ahead of Yaya Toure, Didier Drogba, Demba Ba and Younes Belhanda.

And in doing so, he became the first winner from southern Africa in the history of the award.

Katongo has been recognised for leading his national team to their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations victory in 2012, scoring three goals as well as converting his penalty in the shootout over tournament favourites Ivory Coast to lift the trophy.

A delighted Katongo told BBC Sport: "This is a fantastic moment for me. I thank the people who voted for me. It is something I will never forget in my career.

"I did my best and the people have spoken - that's the beauty of this award

"This means a lot for the young people and the young players who look up to me. I could not have achieved this without the support of my team-mates."

He added: "I think the things that they (the fans) like about me is my discipline and that I am the kind of player who can fail one day but pull up his socks and keep going. I think that is why they voted for me.

"To be among the top players who have won this award, I will go to sleep with a smile on my face.

"I did my best and the people have spoken. That's the beauty of this award."

PREVIOUS WINNERS

2011 - Andre 'Dede' Ayew (Marseille & Ghana)

2010 - Asamoah Gyan (Sunderland & Ghana)

2009 - Didier Drogba (Chelsea & Ivory Coast)

2008 - Mohamed Aboutrika (Al Ahly & Egypt)

2007 - Emmanuel Adebayor (Arsenal & Togo)

2006 - Michael Essien (Chelsea & Ghana)

2005 - Mohamed Barakat (Al Ahly & Egypt)

2004 - Jay Jay Okocha (Bolton & Nigeria)

2003 - Jay Jay Okocha (Bolton & Nigeria)