The road to global recognition just turned African red, green, and gold. Four of the continent’s finest — Mohamed Salah, Achraf Hakimi, Temwa Chawinga, and Chiamaka Nnadozie — have been named on the shortlist for the FIFA The Best Awards 2025, proving once again that Africa’s football brilliance is not to be overlooked.
Salah Leads the Charge
Egyptian talisman Mohamed Salah finds himself in elite company once again after being shortlisted for the FIFA Men’s Player of the Year award.
The Liverpool forward, who has continued to deliver week after week in the Premier League and on the international stage, faces stiff competition from Kylian Mbappé (France/Real Madrid), Erling Haaland (Norway/Manchester City), and Vinícius Júnior (Brazil/Real Madrid).
Salah’s consistency has been nothing short of remarkable — his 2025 campaign included crucial goals in World Cup qualifiers and another dominant run in European competition. For African fans, his inclusion is more than personal glory; it’s proof of continental excellence on the world’s biggest platform.
Hakimi Flies the Moroccan Flag High
Joining Salah on the men’s list is Achraf Hakimi, Morocco’s right-back powerhouse and Paris Saint-Germain mainstay.
Renowned for his explosive runs, tactical intelligence, and defensive grit, Hakimi’s nomination comes after a standout season in Ligue 1 and another strong international showing with the Atlas Lions.
With PSG boasting a record four players on this year’s shortlist — including Ousmane Dembélé, Nuno Mendes, and Vitinha — Hakimi’s presence reinforces his reputation as one of the world’s top full-backs and a leader of Africa’s new generation.
Chawinga Makes Malawian History
On the women’s side, Temwa Chawinga has etched her name in the record books as the first Malawian ever nominated for The Best FIFA Women’s Player award.
Her nomination follows an electrifying season in which she topped scoring charts and helped elevate Malawi’s international profile. For a country rarely in the global football spotlight, Chawinga’s feat is monumental — a moment of pride for Southern Africa.
Nnadozie’s Heroics Earn Goalkeeper Nod
Nigeria’s Chiamaka Nnadozie completes the African quartet after earning her place among nominees for The Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper.
Her performances for Paris FC and the Super Falcons have drawn praise from pundits and peers alike — commanding, fearless, and often match-saving. From penalty stops to clutch saves under pressure, Nnadozie’s 2025 has been a masterclass in confidence between the posts.
Africa’s Momentum Continues
This year’s FIFA shortlist isn’t just a celebration of individual brilliance — it’s a statement of intent. African footballers, men and women alike, continue to challenge narratives, redefine standards, and claim their rightful space among the world’s elite.
As the countdown to the FIFA The Best Awards 2025 continues, one thing is certain: Africa is not just participating — it’s competing for the crown.
