Victor James Osimhen has secured a spot among the three finalists for the 2025 CAF Men’s Player of the Year award. He will compete against Mohamed Salah and Achraf Hakimi. CAF announced the shortlist on November 16.
The award ceremony for the African best player holds on November 19 in Rabat, Morocco. Osimhen, the 2023 award winner, is vying for his second crown.
He enjoyed a prolific 2024–25 season with Galatasaray. According to reports, he scored 37 goals in 41 appearances and contributed eight assists. His season was capped by a stunning bicycle kick against Antalyaspor. Later, this goal was voted the Süper Lig’s Goal of the Season.
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Meanwhile, Salah remains a stalwart presence. The Liverpool forward netted 29 Premier League goals and made 18 assists during the eligibility period. He is chasing a third CAF Player of the Year title, having won it in 2017 and 2018.
Achraf Hakimi rounds out the trio after a standout season with Paris Saint-Germain. The Moroccan full-back played an instrumental role in PSG’s historic treble, including their first-ever UEFA Champions League win.
CAF said the shortlist was determined by votes from its Technical and Development Committee. It also included national team coaches, captains, and selected media representatives.
The 2025 CAF Awards will celebrate a full range of African football achievements. These will include categories for goalkeepers, young players, and clubs.
