Black History Month: How George Weah's 'miracle' 1995 Ballon d'Or win put Black and African players on the map

There were few arguments as Karim Benzema was announced as winner of the 2022 Ballon d’Or in a lavish ceremony in Paris this month. With the criteria for victory based on performances during the 2021/22 season, the France striker’s glittering campaign scoring 44 goals in 46 games to help Real Madrid to the La Liga and Champions League titles, as well as a UEFA Nations League title with France, may not be bettered for some time.

Ad Benzema is the first Frenchman to win the award since 1998, when the golden orb was lifted by Zinedine Zidane — who was on hand to present his compatriot with his richly-deserved prize. Ballon d'OrBenzema, NFTs and the true winner of the Ballon d’Or – The Warm-Up11 HOURS AGO Although considered French and representing Les Bleus, the two men share Algerian heritage making them a rarity on the winners list in being of African descent, an honour they share with 1965 winner Eusebio.

Born in Mozambique although he represented Portugal, Eusebio made history as the first Black player to win the award following his goalscoring heroics for Benfica and his national side throughout the 1960s and 1970s. The year he collected the award, his side won the Portuguese title and lost the European Cup final, with Eusebio claiming the golden boot in both competitions.