Former Nigeria international, Victor Ikpeba, has given reasons, Moroccan defender, Achraf Hakimi had to be named the 2025 CAF 2025 Player of the Year Award ahead of Victor Osimhen.

Ikpeba believes that the Moroccan deserves the award following his exploits with Paris Saint-Germain last season.

The 27-year-old right-back won the Champions League, the Ligue1 and every available trophy, except for the FIFA Club World Cup, with PSG.

The Moroccan beat Osimhen and Egyptian forward, Mohamed Salah to win the most coveted individual award in African football.

Osimhen was nominated after he scored 37 goals and provided eight assists in 41 appearances for Galatasaray, helping them win a domestic double.

Ikpeba believes Hakimi deserved to be crowned for his efforts in treble-winning PSG.

“We are disappointed we are not going to the World Cup but Victor has been outstanding with his passion and determination when he plays for the national team with no limits,” Ikpeba said.

“For the three players, I think Hakimi has been brilliant, won the Ligue 1, the Champions League, and he won everything with PSG.

“But I think for the beauty of the football, he is a deserving winner.”