Moroccan National Team and PSG posing for a picture with his mother moments before winning player of the year at the CAF Awards 2025
By Thulane Madalane
Rabat: Wednesday night shimmered with brilliance and pride for African football, the prestigious CAF Awards 2025 were held in the vibrant heart of Rabat, Morocco, on November 19. The event illuminated the outstanding achievements of athletes who have set the standard on both continental and global stages. At the forefront of this celebration were Achraf Hakimi and Ghizlane Chebbak, who were honored as the African Players of the Year in their respective categories.
Defender Achraf Hakimi, representing Paris Saint-Germain, took home the coveted title of CAF Men’s Player of the Year for the first time in his illustrious career. His accolade comes on the heels of an exceptional 2024/25 season, during which he played an integral role in PSG’s historic treble-winning campaign, including the team’s first-ever UEFA Champions League title. In what was a highly competitive field, Hakimi outshone notable contenders such as Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah and Galatasaray’s Victor Osimhen, affirming his status as a key figure not just for his club but for the Moroccan national team. This award holds special significance: Hakimi becomes only the third Moroccan to earn the title, joining the ranks of legends like Mustapha Hadji, who last claimed it in 1998.
Meanwhile, in a landmark achievement for Moroccan women’s sports, Ghizlane Chebbak was awarded the CAF Women’s Player of the Year. Her victory is particularly historic, as she becomes the first Moroccan woman to receive this honor, reflecting her skill, perseverance, and substantial impact on the sport. Currently playing for Al Hilal, Chebbak’s journey offers an inspiring narrative of breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated arena, showcasing the growing prowess of women in African football.
The awards ceremony was not only a personal triumph for Hakimi and Chebbak; it also marked a remarkable night for Moroccan football, which saw several athletes celebrated for their talents. Yassine Bounou snagged the award for CAF Goalkeeper of the Year, further emphasizing Morocco’s prominence in the footballing landscape. Other notable winners included:
- Coach of the Year (Men): Bubista (Cape Verde)
- Goalkeeper of the Year (Women): Chiamaka Nnadozie (Brighton/Nigeria)
- Interclub Player of the Year: Fiston Mayele (Pyramids FC/DR Congo)
- Club of the Year (Men): Pyramids FC
- National Team of the Year (Men): Morocco U20
- National Team of the Year (Women): Nigeria
- Young Player of the Year (Men): Othmane Maamma (Watford/Morocco)
- Young Player of the Year (Women): Doha El Madani
These winners reflect the burgeoning talent across the continent and highlight the diverse achievements within African football. The Young Player of the Year accolades featured promising prospects ready to take the torch from current stars, ensuring a bright future for the sport.
The CAF Awards 2025 not only recognized individual brilliance but also reinforced the unity and passion of African football. As the continent continues to rise in the world of sports, the achievements of players like Achraf Hakimi and Ghizlane Chebbak pave the way for future generations. With continued support and recognition, the African football landscape promises to be rich with talent, making for an exciting future in the beautiful game.
