What's happened
Moroccan footballer Hakimi won the 2025 CAF Award, recognizing his success with PSG, including the Champions League victory. He is the first Moroccan to win since 1998 and the first defender since 1973. Other Moroccan players also received awards, and Cape Verde qualified for the World Cup.
What's behind the headline?
Hakimi's award underscores Morocco's rising prominence in African and international football. His historic win as the first Moroccan since 1998 and the first defender since 1973 highlights the country's growing talent pool. The awards to other Moroccan players and Cape Verde's World Cup qualification reflect a broader regional momentum. This shift signals increased investment and development in African football, which will likely lead to more competitive performances on the world stage. The recognition also boosts Morocco's national pride and could inspire future generations, potentially elevating the continent's global football standing. The timing suggests a strategic focus on showcasing African talent amid a competitive international landscape, with the awards serving as both recognition and motivation.
What the papers say
Al Jazeera and France 24 both highlight Hakimi's historic win and the significance for Moroccan football, emphasizing his trophy-laden 2025 season with PSG. Al Jazeera notes Hakimi's pride and the broader regional success, including awards to Moroccan players and Cape Verde's World Cup qualification. France 24 echoes these points, emphasizing Morocco's achievements and the regional momentum. The articles collectively portray a narrative of rising African football prominence, driven by individual excellence and national development efforts.
How we got here
Hakimi's recognition follows a trophy-rich 2025 with Paris Saint-Germain, where he helped secure the Champions League, Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and UEFA Super Cup. His historic win marks a significant milestone for Moroccan football, with the country experiencing a surge in international recognition and success.
Go deeper
Common question
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Who Is Hakimi and Why Is His CAF Award Win a Big Deal?
Moroccan football star Hakimi has made headlines by winning the 2025 CAF Award, a recognition of his outstanding performance with Paris Saint-Germain. This achievement marks a historic milestone for Moroccan football and highlights the rising prominence of African players on the international stage. But what exactly makes Hakimi's award so significant, and what does it mean for African football overall? Below, we explore the details and answer common questions about this exciting development.
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Who Is Hakimi and Why Is His CAF Award Win a Big Deal?
Moroccan football star Hakimi made headlines in 2025 by winning the prestigious CAF Award, a recognition of his outstanding performance with Paris Saint-Germain. His victory is not just a personal achievement but also a milestone for Moroccan and African football. Curious about what makes this win so significant? Below, we explore Hakimi's impact, Morocco's football success, and what this means for African sports as a whole.
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