Historic Win⁤ for PSG Defender

Paris Saint-Germain right-back ​Achraf Hakimi ‌has been named the 2025 African Footballer of ​the Year at⁣ the Confederation of African Football ​(CAF) Awards held in Rabat, Morocco, on ​Wednesday,‌ December 11,⁢ 2025.This marks a significant moment in‌ the award’s history, ⁤as Hakimi is the first ‌defender too claim the title in 52 years, breaking a long-standing trend dominated by attacking players.

Hakimi’s victory recognizes a ⁤stellar 2025 season with PSG, during which he secured a remarkable quadruple: the⁣ Champions League, Ligue 1 title, Coupe de France, ​and UEFA Super Cup. His consistent performances and crucial contributions to PSG’s success were key factors in his selection.

Breaking Records and National Pride

the ⁣Moroccan international finished⁢ ahead of fellow nominees Mohamed Salah and Victor Osimhen in ⁢the voting. He is also the first Moroccan player to win the prestigious ‌award as Mustapha Hadji’s triumph in 1998. Prior to Hakimi, the last⁤ defender to be honored was Zaire (now Democratic Republic of the ⁣Congo) centre-back Bwanga Tshimen in 1973.

Moroccan dominance⁣ and Other Award ⁤Winners

Morocco enjoyed a highly successful evening at the CAF Awards, with‍ several other players receiving recognition. Ghizlane Chebbak, a forward ​currently playing for a Saudi Arabian club, was named Women’s Footballer ⁣of the Year. Al-Hilal’s Yassine Bounou secured the Goalkeeper of the Year award.

Nigeria’s ​Chiamaka Nnadozie continued her dominance, winning the Women’s⁤ Goalkeeper of‍ the Year award for the third consecutive year. Nnadozie recently transitioned to brighton & Hove Albion in the Women’s Super League.Cape Verde’s Bubista was honored as ⁤Coach of the Year for leading the nation to its first-ever appearance ​at the FIFA World Cup, scheduled to ⁣be jointly hosted by the ​United States, Mexico, and Canada​ in 2026.