The race for Africa’s football crown has reignited, and it’s not just about goals, it’s about glory, ego, and legacy.

Reigning champion Victor Osimhen is back in the spotlight after being shortlisted once again for the 2025 CAF Men’s Player of the Year, but this time, the competition feels personal. On the list? His long-time regional rival Mohamed Salah, Moroccan starboy Achraf Hakimi, and a few surprise underdogs with points to prove.

Osimhen, fresh off a record-setting 26-goal season with Galatasaray and a €75 million blockbuster move from Napoli, is seen as the man to beat. But Salah, whose club form with Liverpool remains strong, isn’t just chasing the award, he’s chasing redemption after losing to Osimhen in 2023.

CAF dropped the 10-man shortlist Wednesday, stoking debates from Lagos to Cairo. Some fans argue it’s a two-horse race. Others say the inclusion of names like Guirassy, Mayele, and Bouanga could split the vote, and turn the title into a shock upset.

CAF Men’s Player of the Year 2025 Nominees:
Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray, Nigeria). Mohamed Salah (Liverpool, Egypt). Achraf Hakimi (PSG, Morocco). Serhou Guirassy (Borussia Dortmund, Guinea). Pape Matar Sarr (Tottenham, Senegal). Iliman Ndiaye (Everton, Senegal). Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa (Napoli, Cameroon). Denis Bouanga (LAFC, Gabon). Fiston Mayele (Pyramids, DR Congo). Oussama Lamlioui (RS Berkane, Morocco).

Now the question lingers: Can Osimhen defend his throne, or will Salah reclaim the crown to restore Egyptian dominance?
The CAF Awards will be held later this year, but one thing’s clear, this is more than a trophy, it’s a continental power struggle.