The race for continental glory is fully alive as CAF unveils the final shortlist for the 2025 CAF Awards. The announcement confirms what many fans already sensed throughout the season. Africa’s elite players, coaches and teams have delivered performances that shaped leagues, tournaments and national dreams across the world.
This year’s list feels especially competitive, and the presence of Victor Osimhen among the top three nominees for Men’s Player of the Year brings a familiar jolt of excitement to Nigerian football fans.
Men’s Player of the Year
CAF narrowed the list to three names who dominated the season with skill, consistency and game-changing moments. Mohamed Salah powered Liverpool to a Premier League title. Achraf Hakimi played a starring role in PSG’s Champions League triumph. Victor Osimhen continues to operate like a striker built for chaos and brilliance.
Osimhen’s case is particularly compelling. He recorded 37 goals in 41 appearances for Galatasaray last season. The goals came in different shapes and moments, from acrobatic finishes to last minute match winners. He also leads the Champions League scoring chart this season, placing him ahead of names like Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland. His form has spilled into international duty, where he delivered a hat-trick against Benin Republic and scored twice in Nigeria’s 4–1 semifinal playoff win over Gabon.
Read: CAF Awards 2025: Super Falcons Stars Make Final Cut
Goalkeeper of the Year
The goalkeeping category highlights consistency and composure. Munir Mohamedi played a central role as RS Berkane lifted the CAF Confederation Cup. Yassine Bonou remained a pillar for Al Hilal and Morocco. Ronwen Williams continued his dominance in the South African league while leading Bafana Bafana to World Cup qualification.
Each of these goalkeepers survived seasons that tested reflexes and mental strength, making their nominations well deserved.
Interclub Player of the Year
CAF celebrates three standouts from the continent’s toughest club competitions. Fiston Mayele led the CAF Champions League scoring chart. Mohamed Chibi brought balanced defending and attacking quality for Pyramids. Oussama Lamlioui powered RS Berkane’s title-winning run in the Confederation Cup.
These players shaped big moments in African club football and delivered performances that shifted tournament narratives.
Coach of the Year
The coaching shortlist captures the masterminds behind dramatic surges in form and historic achievements. Bubista led Cape Verde to their first ever World Cup qualification. Mohamed Ouahbi delivered a World Cup trophy at the Under 20 level. Walid Regragui guided Morocco through a flawless run to the 2026 World Cup.
Their systems, discipline and tactical clarity set them apart during the year under review.
Young Player of the Year
Africa’s next generation of stars is shining brightly. Abdellah Ouazane impressed at Ajax and dominated the Under 17 AFCON. Othmane Maamma put together a breakout season before sealing a move to Watford. Tylon Smith anchored South Africa’s defensive line as they lifted the Under 20 AFCON.
These young players signal a promising future for African football.
Read: Osimhen Edges Toward Yekini’s Record After Gabon Victory
National Team and Club Categories
Cape Verde, Morocco and Morocco’s Under 20 team headline the national team shortlist, each achieving historic tournament success or consistent excellence. On the club side, Pyramids, RS Berkane and Mamelodi Sundowns make the list after outstanding campaigns across domestic and continental competitions.
Osimhen’s Moment at The CAF Awards?
With the CAF Awards set for Wednesday in Rabat, Victor Osimhen stands on the brink of another major milestone. His nomination puts him alongside Salah and Hakimi, two of the most accomplished African players of this era. The winner will be determined by votes from CAF legends, coaches, captains and journalists.
As the countdown continues, one thing remains certain: African football delivered a year full of brilliance, storylines and unforgettable performances.
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