The shortlist features two representatives from continental powerhouse Nigeria, alongside leading players from Zambia, Malawi, and Morocco, among others. The winner of the coveted award will be unveiled at the CAF Awards gala scheduled to be held in Marrakech, Morocco.
Super Falcons Duo Make the Cut
The Nigerian contingent is led by forward Rasheedat Ajibade and midfielder Esther Okoronkwo, both of the Super Falcons. Their inclusion reflects stellar performances for both club and country over the past year.
Nigeria also dominated other categories, with goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie receiving a nomination for the Goalkeeper of the Year prize. Additionally, the country's national teams, the Super Falcons and the Flamingos (U-17), made the shortlist for the National Team of the Award, with Nigerian coaches also receiving nods in the Women's Best Coach category.
Fierce Competition for the Crown
The Nigerian players will face stiff competition from other African giants, including the Zambian duo who have been consistently impressive on the international stage, and the dynamic Malawian sisters, the Chawinga's.
The eventual winner, succeeding previous title holders like Nigeria’s Asisat Oshoala, will be decided by a voting process involving the CAF Technical Committee, media professionals, and national team coaches and captains.
CAF Women's Player of the Year 2025 Shortlist
The following players were nominated for the top individual women's award in African football:
Rasheedat Ajibade (Nigeria)
Esther Okoronkwo (Nigeria)
Barbara Banda (Zambia)
Racheal Kundananji (Zambia)
Tabitha Chawinga (Malawi)
Temwa Chawinga (Malawi)
Sanaa Mssoudy (Morocco)
Ghizlane Chebbak (Morocco)
Portia Boakye (Ghana)
Mame Diop (Senegal)