Hakimi Clinches 2025 CAF Player Of The Year, Ikpeba Explains Why He Outshone Osimhen

Former Nigerian striker Victor Ikpeba has offered his perspective on why Moroccan international Achraf Hakimi was named the 2025 CAF Player of the Year, edging out Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen and Egypt’s Mohamed Salah. According to reports, Ikpeba attributed Hakimi’s triumph to his outstanding performances with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) over the past season.

Hakimi played a pivotal role in PSG’s Champions League victory and contributed significantly to their domestic success, helping the club secure the Ligue 1 title along with most major French domestic trophies, with only the FIFA Club World Cup eluding them.

While Osimhen also had an exceptional season, netting 37 goals and providing eight assists in 41 appearances to help Galatasaray clinch a domestic double, Ikpeba believes Hakimi’s impact in a treble-winning side ultimately set him apart.

“We are disappointed we are not going to the World Cup, but Victor has been outstanding, showing passion and determination for the national team,” Ikpeba said. “Among the three players, Hakimi has been brilliant, winning the Ligue 1, the Champions League, and everything else with PSG. For the beauty of the football, he is a deserving winner.”