The glittering ceremony, held late Wednesday, marked the first time in the awards’ history that Moroccan players won both top individual honours in the same year.

Hakimi, 27, claimed the Men’s Player of the Year award after an exceptional season with Paris Saint-Germain. The right-back played a decisive role in PSG’s historic campaign, lifting the UEFA Champions League, Ligue 1, the Coupe de France and the UEFA Super Cup.

He also helped Morocco secure early qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, strengthening the nation’s ambitions as they prepare to host AFCON 2025.

His victory makes him the first Moroccan man since Mustapha Hadji in 1998 to win the prize. Arriving on stage with a protective boot still on his injured foot, Hakimi appeared emotional as he dedicated the award to “all Africans who continue to believe in our football”.

On the women’s side, Ghizlane Chebbak achieved a milestone of her own. The 35-year-old captain of Morocco’s national team became the first Moroccan woman ever to win the CAF Women’s Player of the Year award since its creation in 2001.

Chebbak enjoyed a standout season, leading Morocco to the WAFCON 2024 final as the tournament’s top scorer and delivering strong performances with Saudi club Al-Hilal. Her win reflects the dramatic progress of women’s football in Morocco a program that barely existed a decade ago but is now among Africa’s strongest.

Accepting the award, Chebbak credited “years of sacrifice, training and belief” and called the recognition “a victory for every girl who dreams of playing football”.

The double success added to Morocco’s presence throughout the ceremony, with Yassine Bounou, Othmane Maamma and Doha El Madani also recognised in various categories. Observers say the achievements mirror heavy national investment in youth development, coaching and facilities.

Across Africa, Nigeria’s Chiamaka Nnadozie and the Super Falcons also collected major honours, underscoring the growing depth in the women’s game.

Beyond individual awards, this year’s ceremony highlighted a broader message; African football for men and women alike is entering a period of accelerated growth. With stronger leagues, expanding academies and historic investments, the continent is preparing to compete more fiercely on the world stage.

For Morocco, the victories of Hakimi and Chebbak capped a symbolic night, ending years without major individual awards and signaling a future in which the country expects to challenge for continental titles in both categories.