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Morocco shines at CAF Awards: a night of triumph in Rabat

Thursday 20 November 2025 - 09:20

The night of November 19, 2025, marked a historic milestone for Moroccan sports. Under the dazzling lights of Rabat, the CAF Awards crowned Morocco as the new epicenter of African football. Iconic figures such as Achraf Hakimi, Ghizlane Chebbak, and Yassine Bounou were celebrated, reflecting the remarkable rise of Moroccan football on the global stage. The event showcased a nation’s ambitious strategy to make sports a driving force in regional and international influence.

Achraf Hakimi: a golden moment for Morocco

The highlight of the evening was Achraf Hakimi's crowning as the 2025 African Footballer of the Year. At just 27, the Paris Saint Germain defender and captain of the Atlas Lions became the first Moroccan defender to achieve this prestigious honor. His exceptional season, with 55 matches, 11 goals and 16 assists, cemented his victory over competitors like Mohamed Salah and Victor Osimhen.

"This trophy belongs to an entire nation," Hakimi said emotionally as he addressed an elated audience. His achievement reflects the peak of a golden generation and the success of Morocco’s national strategy to nurture elite talent while building a strong foundation for the future. Admired for his leadership even during difficult moments such as his recent injury, Hakimi remains a source of inspiration. His global impact was underlined by Kylian Mbappé who praised his friend on social media.

Ghizlane Chebbak: a trailblazer for women’s football

On the women’s front, Ghizlane Chebbak was named African Women’s Footballer of the Year. As captain of the Atlas Lionesses, Chebbak is more than an athlete; she represents a movement transforming the landscape of women’s football in Morocco. Her stellar performances during the last Africa Women Cup of Nations propelled her team into the spotlight.

Her victory also highlights the efforts of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), which has tirelessly promoted women’s sports. The inclusion of Sanaa Mssoudy as a finalist underscores the growing pool of talent. Chebbak’s leadership and charisma embody a new era where sporting excellence aligns with cultural and social empowerment.

Yassine Bounou: the wall of Africa

Yassine Bounou, the 32-year-old Sevilla goalkeeper, was recognized as the Best African Goalkeeper of the Year. His stellar performances, including crucial saves during Morocco’s World Cup 2026 qualifiers, earned him this well-deserved accolade.

Bounou’s consistency and resilience reflect the strength of a Moroccan team steadily climbing the ranks of international football. His award celebrates not just individual brilliance but also the collective spirit of the Atlas Lions.

Rising stars and the U20 triumph

The evening also honored Morocco’s U20 national team, named the Best Men’s Team after their victory at the U20 World Cup. Young talents like Doha El Madani and Othmane Maamma, awarded Best African Young Players, symbolize a bright future for Moroccan football.

These achievements are the result of Morocco’s strategic focus on talent development. By investing in youth training and scouting, the kingdom ensures its footballing success is sustainable.

A model for the continent

This historic night in Rabat sent a powerful message to Africa: the continent can compete with the world’s best through innovation, diversity, and a commitment to excellence. Morocco stands as a beacon of progress, not only in sports but also in human development and gender equality.

As 2026 looms with major global football events, Morocco appears ready to tackle every challenge. The kingdom’s journey is no longer just a national story but a continental inspiration, a dream for Africa, a future for Morocco.