As the countdown continues to the CAF Awards 2025 in Rabat on November 19, excitement is building across the continent. This year’s women’s categories tell a powerful story — one of growth, rising standards, and strengthened competition across African football. The final nominees reflect not only individual excellence but also the strides national teams and clubs have made in the last 12 months.
Below is a closer look at the players and teams whose performances stood out during the review period.
Ajibade, Chebbak and Mssoudy Headline Women’s Player of the Year Shortlist
The Women’s Player of the Year category brings together three players who shaped the narrative of African football in 2024–2025.
Nigeria’s Rasheedat Ajibade enters the award ceremony after her most complete year yet. The PSG star played a leading role in Nigeria’s successful title run at the WAFCON, scoring crucial goals, delivering key assists, and consistently stepping up in decisive moments. Her blend of pace, aggression, and big-game temperament earned her the Player of the Tournament award — and positioned her as a natural frontrunner for this year’s crown.
Beyond her national team achievements, Ajibade’s evolution in Europe has also been evident. She continues to refine her finishing and decision-making, becoming one of the most reliable forwards in the French league.
Morocco’s Ghizlaine Chebbak, one of the most intelligent and tactically sharp attacking midfielders in Africa, also makes the elite list. Her leadership for both club and country remains unmatched. Whether dictating tempo for Al Hilal or controlling transitions for Morocco, Chebbak continues to influence games with maturity and composure.
Sanaa Mssoudy, the AS FAR forward who has flourished in the Moroccan Women’s Championship, completes the trio. After winning the CAF Women’s Champions League Player of the Tournament in 2023, she maintained her form and consistency throughout the season. Her mobility, work rate, and ability to unlock defences made her one of the continent’s most dangerous forwards.
Read: Osimhen Edges Toward Yekini’s Record After Gabon Victory
Nnadozie Faces Er-Rmichi and Dlamini for Goalkeeper of the Year
The Goalkeeper of the Year category is one of the most competitive, featuring three players with proven track records.
Nigeria’s Chiamaka Nnadozie, now aiming for her third consecutive title, has shown exceptional shot-stopping ability and leadership. Her performances for Brighton — particularly in high-pressure moments — underline her growth into one of the most complete goalkeepers in world football. At WAFCON, she repeatedly rescued Nigeria with decisive saves and calm command of the box.
Morocco’s Khadija Er-Rmichi brings unmatched experience. Having dominated the Moroccan Women’s Championship for years, she remains a pillar for AS FAR. Her reading of the game, organisation of the defence, and consistency give her a strong case for the award.
South Africa’s Andile Dlamini, meanwhile, continues to show why she is one of Africa’s most trusted shot-stoppers. Even in a season where Mamelodi Sundowns weren’t at their best, Dlamini maintained her high standards with key saves and strong leadership.
CAF Young Player of the Year: Three Rising Stars Redefine the Future
Africa’s emerging talent shines brightly through the nominees for Young Player of the Year.
Morocco’s Doha El Madani has enjoyed a breakthrough season, earning recognition as both the Moroccan Women’s Championship Young Player of the Year and the CAF Women’s Champions League Young Player of the Tournament. Her composure, tactical awareness, and ability to handle pressure at just 20 highlight her huge potential.
Senegal’s Adji Ndiaye, only 19, represents a new wave of shot-stoppers emerging across the continent. Her confidence, decision-making, and sharp reflexes have already made her a standout for AS Bambey and for Senegal at youth level.
Nigeria’s Shakirat Moshood continues to rise rapidly. As captain of the Flamingos, she shows maturity beyond her age, and her contributions to Bayelsa Queens this season underline her development as one of Nigeria’s brightest young talents.
Read: Nigeria Crush Gabon 4-1 to Edge Closer to 2026 World Cup
Nigeria, Morocco and Ghana Battle for National Team of the Year
The National Team of the Year category brings together three teams with distinct narratives:
- Nigeria, the dominant force with a record 10 continental titles.
- Morocco, one of the fastest-rising teams, now consistently reaching WAFCON finals.
- Ghana, revitalised and impressive with a third-place finish at the last WAFCON.
Each team’s nomination reflects strategic progress and improved competitiveness across African women’s football.
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