CAF Names Finalists for 2025 Women’s Player of the Year as Esther Okoronkwo Misses Out

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has released its final shortlist for the 2025 Women’s Player of the Year award — and Nigeria’s Esther Okoronkwo is noticeably missing despite her standout performances at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

CAF confirmed the top three contenders as Nigeria’s Rasheedat Ajibade, alongside Morocco’s Ghizlane Chebbak and Sanna Mssoudy, underscoring the depth of talent in African women’s football.

Ajibade enjoyed a remarkable tournament at WAFCON, earning Woman of the Match honors in three of Nigeria’s six fixtures and playing a pivotal role in securing the Super Falcons’ 10th WAFCON title. She was also crowned Best Player of the Tournament.

Okoronkwo, however, had also delivered an exceptional campaign — scoring twice, contributing four assists, and clinching Woman of the Match in the final after scoring and assisting. Her omission from the final shortlist has stirred debate among supporters and analysts alike.

CAF also released its three finalists for the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year: Morocco’s Khadija Er-Rmichi, Nigeria’s Chiamaka Nnadozie, and South Africa’s Andile Dlamini.

The CAF Awards, which honor the top performers in African football across several categories, will take place later this year, where the winners will be officially announced.

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