Super Falcons stars Rasheedat Ajibade and Asisat Oshoala miss the 2026 CAF Awards shortlist.
In a major development for African women football, Nigerian Super Falcons stars Rasheedat Ajibade and Asisat Oshoala have been left off the final shortlist for the prestigious Women Player of the Year award at the upcoming 2026 CAF Awards.
The Confederation of African Football officially unveiled the ten nominees for the accolade, showcasing elite talent from various nations across the continent, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
The notable omission of Ajibade and Oshoala serves as a surprising setback for Nigeria, a country globally recognized for consistently producing some of the finest female football players in international sports history.
Cameroon leads the 2026 CAF Awards shortlist
While Nigeria misses out on the top individual category, Cameroon leads all nations with an impressive three player nominations following standout performances in international women football competitions.
The Confederation of African Football confirmed that the final list features exceptional athletes representing Algeria, Cameroon, Ghana, Malawi, Morocco, South Africa, and Zambia in this year, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
Full list of Women Player of the Year nominees
The highly competitive category features ten exceptional athletes from across the continent, each vying for the ultimate individual continental honor in African women football.
The official nominees announced by the governing body include Marine Dafeur of Algeria, alongside Cameroonian talents Marie Ngah Manga, Michaely Bihina, and Monique Ngock, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
Zambia and Malawi stars secure nominations
Other notable names on the prestigious shortlist include Ghana representative Portia Boakye, alongside a formidable double nomination for Malawi featuring sisters Tabitha Chawinga and Temwa Chawinga.
Completing the elite ten player list are Morocco defender Hanane Ait El Haj, South African captain Thembi Kgatlana, and Zambian superstar Barbra Banda, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who missed out on the 2026 CAF Awards shortlist?
Nigerian Super Falcons stars Rasheedat Ajibade and Asisat Oshoala were omitted from the Women Player of the Year shortlist.
Which country has the most nominees for the award?
Cameroon leads the nominations with three players on the shortlist, followed by Malawi with two representatives.
Who are the nominees representing Zambia and South Africa?
Barbra Banda represents Zambia, while Thembi Kgatlana secures the nomination for South Africa on the final ten player list.
