Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi becomes first defender in 52 years to win African Footballer of the Year, beating Salah and Osimhen at CAF Awards.
RABAT: Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi was crowned African Footballer of the Year at the 2025 CAF Awards on Wednesday.
The Moroccan right-back made history as the first defender to claim the prestigious prize in 52 years.
Hakimi finished ahead of Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah and Napoli’s Victor Osimhen in the final voting.
His victory capped a trophy-laden 2025 season where he helped PSG secure the Champions League, Ligue 1 title, Coupe de France and UEFA Super Cup.
“It is really a proud moment for me to win this prestigious award,” Hakimi said during his acceptance speech.
“This trophy is not just for me, but all the strong men and women who have dreams of being a footballer in Africa.”
He becomes the first Moroccan winner since midfielder Mustapha Hadji claimed the honor in 1998.
The last defender to win was Zaire’s Bwanga Tshimen back in 1973.
Morocco dominated the awards ceremony with several other victories.
Ghizlane Chebbak won Women’s Footballer of the Year while Yassine Bounou claimed Goalkeeper of the Year.
Nigeria’s Chiamaka Nnadozie secured her third consecutive Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award.
Cape Verde’s Bubista earned Coach of the Year after guiding his nation to their first World Cup appearance. – Reuters
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