In a stunning victory that ends years of near-misses, Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi was on Wednesday night crowned the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Men’s Player of the Year for 2025.
The Paris Saint-Germain defender finally secured the continent’s most prestigious individual football honour at a glittering ceremony in Rabat, edging out fierce competition from Egypt’s Mohamed Salah and Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen. The win shatters a 27-year drought for Moroccan footballers and marks a historic moment for defenders across Africa.
Hakimi, who was the only one of the three finalists physically present in the auditorium, could not hide his elation as his name was announced to a roaring crowd. The 27-year-old right-back had finished as runner-up in the two previous editions, making this victory a case of third time’s the charm.
“This is not just a trophy for me, but for my entire nation, for my teammates at club and country, and for every young boy and girl in Morocco and across Africa who dreams of this moment,” Hakimi said, holding the award aloft. “To be recognised in this way is a profound honour. I have come close before, but tonight, the feeling is truly indescribable.”
The award signifies a major shift in the African football landscape, which has recently been dominated by attacking players from Nigeria and Egypt. Victor Osimhen, the 2023 winner now with Galatasaray, and Liverpool’s prolific forward Mohamed Salah were both formidable contenders, but Hakimi’ consistent, world-class performances for both PSG and the Moroccan national team ultimately swayed the votes in his favour.
His triumph also makes him only the fourth defender to win the award in its modern history, joining an elite group and challenging the notion that only goalscorers can claim the top prize.
A CAF official, speaking on the significance of the win, stated, “Achraf Hakimi represents the modern, complete footballer. His athleticism, technical skill, and contribution on both ends of the pitch have been phenomenal. This award is a testament to his excellence and his pivotal role in Morocco’s continued success on the global stage.”
The last Moroccan to win the award was Mustapha Hadji in 1998, making Hakimi’s victory a moment of immense national pride, celebrated across the football-loving nation.
