Ajibade snubbed as Morocco's Chebbak claims CAF Women’s Player of the Year award

For many observers, the CAF Awards delivered a major surprise as Rasheedat Ajibade, widely seen as a frontrunner, missed out on the continent’s top honour.

Instead, Morocco’s Ghizlane Chebbak emerged victorious, capping off an impressive year with her first Women’s Player of the Year award.

Moroccan captain Chebbak’s triumph came on the back of an outstanding year for both club and country in 2025.

The 34-year-old Moroccan veteran finished WAFCON 2024 as the top scorer with five goals, guiding the Atlas Lionesses to the final with her trademark leadership and relentless energy.

Her performances throughout the tournament made her an undeniable contender, and CAF hailed her influence as vital to Morocco’s rise on the African stage.

Chebbak’s season also saw her shine for Al Hilal, where she continued to demonstrate her elite playmaking and goalscoring ability.

Her victory over Ajibade and fellow Moroccan Sanaa Mssoudy marks a significant milestone in her career, especially after years of consistency at both international and club levels.

Rasheedat Ajibade’s omission raised eyebrows, especially given her exceptional achievements over the past year.

The Super Falcons captain led Nigeria to the WAFCON 2024 title, winning three Player of the Match awards and being named the tournament’s Best Player. Many expected her to cap off her phenomenal run with the CAF crown.

Ajibade also secured a major career move to Paris Saint-Germain after departing Atletico Madrid, a transfer that added to her elite status in world football.

Mssoudy, the third nominee, also had a stellar year, standing out as the best player in the 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League. However, the night ultimately belonged to Chebbak, whose consistency and impact carried her to the pinnacle of African football.