CAF Releases Final Shortlist for 2025 Women’s Player of the Year
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has released its final shortlist for the 2025 Women’s Player of the Year award, with Nigeria’s Esther Okoronkwo missing out despite her strong performances at the last Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
The three contenders for the top honour are Rasheedat Ajibade of Nigeria, along with Morocco’s Ghizlane Chebbak and Sanna Mssoudy. Their inclusion reflects the rising level of competition in women’s football across the continent.
Ajibade was a standout performer at WAFCON, claiming the Woman of the Match award in three of Nigeria’s six fixtures and playing a key role in the Super Falcons’ capture of their 10th continental title. She was also named the tournament’s Best Player.
Okoronkwo, however, delivered an equally influential campaign, scoring twice and providing four assists. She earned the Woman of the Match award in the final after contributing both a goal and an assist. Her omission from the shortlist has prompted debate among supporters and football analysts.
CAF also announced the finalists for the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award: Khadija Er-Rmichi of Morocco, Nigeria’s Chiamaka Nnadozie and South Africa’s Andile Dlamini.
The CAF Awards, held annually, honour the outstanding performers in African football at club and international level. Winners will be unveiled at the awards ceremony later in the year.
