Moroccan superstar Achraf Hakimi said his focus is now on helping Morocco lift the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), following his crowning as CAF Men’s Player of the Year at the 2025 CAF Awards in Rabat on Wednesday night.

Morocco has not won the prestigious trophy since 1976. The tournament kicks off on December 21, with Morocco, the host nation, opening their campaign against Comoros in a group that also includes Zambia and Mali.

The Paris Saint-Germain defender, who is currently sidelined due to a ‘severe’ ankle sprain made history as the first Moroccan to win the award since 1998 and the first defender to claim it since 1973, capping a trophy-laden year that included the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, Ligue 1, and a Club World Cup final appearance.

“This trophy is not just for me; it is for all Africans… We will try to do our best to actually win the AFCON trophy,” he said.

“It was not easy to get here… I am proud to be Moroccan. Long live Morocco.”

In the women’s category, Ghizlane Chebbak became the first Moroccan to win CAF Women’s Player of the Year.

“This is not just a simple award—it is the fruit of a lot of hard work,” she said.

“Women’s football will get even better… Believe in yourself and persevere.”

Morocco capped a memorable evening with six honours, including Yassine Bounou being named Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year and the Under-20 national team being crowned Men’s Team of the Year.

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