CAF Awards 2025: “Three-Time Winner, One Overlooked Reality, Nnadozie Should Be a Player of the Year Contender”

Nigeria stamped its authority on the global football map once again at the CAF Awards 2025 in Rabat, delivering a night of pride, celebration, and continental dominance. With historic wins and powerful performances, Nigerian stars proved why the country remains one of Africa’s most respected football giants.

From Chiamaka Nnadozie’s continued reign to the Super Falcons’ sweeping victory, Team Nigeria left the ceremony with their heads held high and the entire nation cheering.

Nigeria’s golden goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, added another glorious chapter to her rapidly growing legacy by winning the CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year for the third consecutive year.

Her consistency, command, and world-class saves throughout the season earned her a loud standing ovation in Rabat. Nnadozie’s achievement is more than an award; it is a symbol of hope and representation for millions of young female athletes across Nigeria.

Her win reminds the world that Nigeria continues to produce elite talents capable of dominating the global stage.

The Super Falcons reclaimed their continental throne in style as they were named CAF Women’s National Team of the Year.

It was a powerful acknowledgment of their resilience, unity, and unmatched pedigree. Despite challenges and transitions within the squad, the Falcons stood strong, outclassing rivals and proving that Nigeria remains the heartbeat of women’s football in Africa.

This award is also a victory for coaches, support staff, and the growing ecosystem of women’s football development in the country.

Nigeria may not have claimed all categories, but the nation’s presence was deeply felt throughout the ceremony.

The Super Falcons’ dominance echoed across the event hall.

Nigerian football stakeholders, legends, and supporters held their heads high as the green-and-white flag stayed visible all night.

These awards highlight a promising era for Nigerian football where dedication, talent, and constant evolution continue to push the nation forward.

The CAF Awards 2025 were not just a celebration of victories but also a reminder of what lies ahead for Nigeria. With rising stars emerging across Europe, Africa, and local leagues, and with Nigeria’s football culture getting stronger every year, the nation is on course for even bigger milestones.

The performances of Nnadozie and the Super Falcons show that Nigerian football is thriving, confident, and ready for the future.

As the lights dimmed in Rabat, one thing became clear:

Nigeria is still a powerhouse and the world is watching.

NIGERIA’S BIG MOMENTS

 Chiamaka Nnadozie — Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year

Third Consecutive Win!

Nigeria’s number one, Chiamaka Nnadozie, achieved a historic hat-trick, winning the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award for the third year in a row.

Her consistency, leadership, penalty-stopping record, and top performances for Paris FC,  Brighton and Hoves Women FC and the Super Falcons made her the undisputed choice.

Her dominance continues to place Nigeria at the top of women’s football in Africa.

Super Falcons — Women’s National Team of the Year

The Super Falcons added another feather to their already decorated cap, winning the Women’s National Team of the Year.

Their impressive continental displays, strong qualification campaigns and resilience across competitions proved again that Nigeria remains the powerhouse of African women’s football.

THE BIGGEST HONOURS OF THE NIGHT

MEN’S PLAYER OF THE YEAR — ACHRAF HAKIMI (MOROCCO)

In what was the most anticipated award of the night, Achraf Hakimi was crowned the 2025 Men’s Player of the Year.

Stepping up to the podium amid thunderous applause, Hakimi delivered a heartfelt message:

His victory is historic not only because he beat giants like Salah and Osimhen, but because he becomes one of the very few defenders in CAF history to win the biggest honour in African football.

Hakimi enjoyed a phenomenal year with PSG and the Moroccan national team:

Consistent top-level performances

Leadership on and off the pitch

Crucial goals and match-defining assists

His influence on Morocco’s rise as a continental powerhouse

2025 truly became “The Year of Hakimi.”

WOMEN’S PLAYER OF THE YEAR — GHIZLANE CHEBBAK (MOROCCO)

The headline women’s award went to Ghizlane Chebbak, Morocco’s inspirational midfielder and captain.

Chebbak’s performances throughout the year, her influence in the Atlas Lionesses’ impressive international run, and her leadership at club level earned her the crown.

She continues to be the heartbeat of Moroccan women’s football, combining intelligence, vision, technique, and experience in a way only legends do.

Her win also highlights the rise of North African women’s football on the continent.

FULL LIST OF CAF AWARDS 2025 WINNERS

MAJOR INDIVIDUAL AWARDS

Men’s Player of the Year: Achraf Hakimi (Morocco)

Women’s Player of the Year: Ghizlane Chebbak (Morocco)

Men’s Coach of the Year: Bubista (Cape Verde)

Women’s Coach of the Year: Not specified in CAF timeline—placeholder available if needed

Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year: Yassine Bounou (Morocco)

Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year: Chiamaka Nnadozie (Nigeria)

Men’s Young Player of the Year: Othmane Maamma (Morocco)

Women’s Young Player of the Year: Doha El Madani (Morocco)

Interclub Player of the Year (Men): Fiston Mayele (DR Congo)

TEAM & CLUB AWARDS

Women’s National Team of the Year: Nigeria — Super Falcons

Men’s National Team of the Year: Morocco U-20 (World Champions)

Men’s Club of the Year: Pyramids FC (Egypt)

Women’s Club of the Year: Not included in timeline — can be added if announced

SPECIAL AWARDS

Goal of the Year: Clement Mzize (Young Africans, vs TP Mazembe)

From electrifying performances by Awilo Longomba and Fuse ODG, to moving speeches by CAF President Patrice Motsepe and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, the night reflected Africa’s unity and ambition in football.

The Moroccan hosts delivered a spectacular ceremony filled with culture, music, and celebration.

Legends graced the red carpet. Young talents were spotlighted. Champions were honoured.

And through it all, Africa reminded the world that its football is bigger, brighter, and more dynamic than ever.

With Nnadozie’s historic win and the Super Falcons receiving continental recognition, Nigeria reaffirmed its place among Africa’s football elite.

The night ended with pride for Nigerians and hope for what comes next more stars rising, more trophies to chase, and more African excellence to celebrate.