The Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) on Sunday unveiled the top three finalists in the men’s categories ahead of the CAF Awards 2025, one of the most anticipated nights in African football. The ceremony is set to take place in Rabat, Morocco, on Wednesday, 19 November 2025, beginning at 19:00 local time (18:00 GMT). The event will celebrate the standout performers whose brilliance has shaped the continent’s football scene over the past year.
This year’s race for the Men’s Player of the Year is a heavyweight showdown featuring three elite stars who continue to fly Africa’s flag high on the global stage. Egypt’s Mohamed Salah, the Liverpool talisman known for his lethal finishing and leadership, once again secures his place among the continent’s finest. Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, the dynamic Paris Saint-Germain full-back, brings his speed, consistency and world-class performances to the contest. Completing the trio is Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen, now with Galatasaray, whose explosive goal-scoring ability and relentless drive keep him among the top forwards in world football.
Over the years, African football has witnessed legendary players lift this prestigious award. Ghanaian icon Abedi Pele set an early benchmark, winning the title three consecutive times from 1991 to 1993, establishing himself as one of the continent’s most influential talents. In 1995, George Weah, the Liberian forward who would later become his country’s president, etched his name into history by winning the African award and becoming the first African to claim the Ballon d’Or.
The record for the most CAF Men’s Player of the Year awards is jointly held by two giants of the game. Cameroon’s Samuel Eto’o claimed the title four times — in 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2010 — leaving an indelible mark on African and world football. Matching this feat is former Côte d’Ivoire midfielder Yaya Touré, who dominated from 2011 to 2014. Touré remains the only footballer to win the award four years in a row, a testament to his unmatched consistency and influence during his prime.
Before CAF assumed full control of the award, France Football presented the African Ballon d’Or from 1992 to 1999. This changed in the year 2000 when CAF officially took over and renamed it the “African Player of the Year,” a title that has since become a defining badge of honour for Africa’s top football talents.
As the continent turns its attention to Rabat, anticipation continues to build. The upcoming ceremony promises not only to crown new champions but also to celebrate the rich history, legends and legacy that have shaped African football through the decades.
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