Hakimi rules Africa as Morocco sweep 2025 CAF Awards in a night of pure dominance

By Maxwell Kumoye

The continent's leading football figures shone brightly during the awards event, but it was Morocco that captured the spotlight entirely.

Achraf Hakimi, the dynamic right-back and vital player for the Atlas Lions, earned the title of 2025 African Player of the Year, establishing his legacy among the continent's prominent figures.

His success highlighted a night characterized by Moroccan excellence, Nigerian flair, and recognition from East Africa.

Morocco's football prowess was on full display:
★ Ghizlane Chebbak was honored as African Female Player of the Year
★ Yassine Bounou received the award for Best Goalkeeper
★ Othmane Maamma and Doha El Madani dominated the Young Player awards
★ The Morocco U-20 team was recognized as Team of the Year

This was a display of meticulous and effective mastery, the sort that signals intent before any upcoming important tournaments.

However, Nigeria also had its celebrated moment. Chiamaka Nnadozie, the goalkeeper for the Super Falcons, took home the Best Female Goalkeeper title, a well-deserved recognition for one of the most imposing shot-stoppers globally.

Additionally, the Super Falcons triumphed as Women’s Team of the Year, reinforcing Nigeria’s reputation as the continent's champions.

In the realm of club football, DR Congo’s Fiston Mayele was awarded Interclubs Player of the Year, while Egypt's Pyramids FC was named Club of the Year, highlighting their emergence as a significant force within the continent.

Bubista from Cape Verde earned the title of Coach of the Year after an extraordinary season on the sidelines, leading his team to achievements that few anticipated.

The officiating also received recognition:
★ Omar Artan from Somalia was honored as Best Men’s Referee
★ Shamirah Nabadda from Uganda was awarded Best Women’s Referee

CAF’s Outstanding Award was presented to three East African leaders:
★ William Ruto of Kenya
★ Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania
★ Yoweri Museveni of Uganda who were celebrated for their contributions and dedication to fostering football development in the area.

And for a display of sheer brilliance, Clément Mzize from Tanzania won CAF Goal of the Year, a goal deserving of multiple replays.

A remarkable evening filled with stars. A night full of declarations. Most importantly, a night that demonstrated that African football is advancing, rapidly, passionately, and without fear.