In a groundbreaking moment that has sent shockwaves through the football world, Achraf Hakimi has shattered a 52-year-old record by becoming the first defender in over five decades to be crowned African Footballer of the Year. This historic achievement, announced at the 2025 CAF Awards in Rabat, not only cements Hakimi’s status as a football legend but also marks a monumental shift in how defenders are recognized in the sport. But here’s where it gets even more fascinating: Hakimi’s victory wasn’t just about his defensive prowess—it was a testament to his all-around brilliance, as he outshone global stars like Mohamed Salah and Victor Osimhen in the voting process.
The Paris St Germain right-back’s 2025 season was nothing short of extraordinary. Hakimi played a pivotal role in PSG’s quadruple triumph, lifting the Champions League, Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and UEFA Super Cup trophies. His ability to dominate both defensively and offensively has redefined the modern full-back role, making him a role model for aspiring players across Africa and beyond. And this is the part most people miss: Hakimi’s win isn’t just a personal victory—it’s a symbol of hope for African footballers, especially those who dream of breaking barriers in positions often overshadowed by strikers and midfielders.
Hakimi’s triumph is also a historic moment for Morocco, as he becomes the first Moroccan to win this prestigious award since Mustapha Hadji in 1998. In his heartfelt acceptance speech, Hakimi dedicated the trophy to “all the strong men and women who have dreams of being a footballer in Africa,” emphasizing the collective nature of his success. He also paid tribute to those who believed in him since childhood, a reminder of the power of perseverance and support in achieving greatness.
But Hakimi wasn’t the only Moroccan making waves at the CAF Awards. Morocco swept multiple categories, sparking debates about the nation’s rising dominance in African football. Ghizlane Chebbak, a Saudi-based forward, claimed the Women’s Footballer of the Year, while Al-Hilal’s Yassine Bounou was named Goalkeeper of the Year. Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Chiamaka Nnadozie continued her reign as Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year for the third consecutive time, solidifying her status as one of the continent’s best.
Another standout moment came from Cape Verde’s Bubista, who won Coach of the Year after leading the tiny island nation to their first-ever World Cup appearance in 2026. This achievement highlights the growing competitiveness of smaller footballing nations and raises the question: Could Cape Verde be the next underdog to make a splash on the global stage?
As we celebrate Hakimi’s historic win, it’s impossible not to wonder: Is this the beginning of a new era for defenders in African football? And with Morocco’s sweeping success, are we witnessing the rise of a new powerhouse in the continent? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—do you think Hakimi’s victory will inspire a new generation of defenders, or is this just a one-off triumph? The debate is open, and your opinion matters!