Barbra Banda Wins - Roll Call of CAF African Women's Player of the Year Award Winners 2001

The CAF Women's Player of the Year Award is a prestigious accolade that celebrates the outstanding talents and achievements of female footballers on the African continent. Since its inception in 2001, the award has recognized the incredible skills, dedication, and impact of various players who have not only excelled on the field but also inspired many aspiring athletes. This post offers a year-by-year breakdown of the award winners, their performances, and the voting methods and nominees that defined each year.

Nigerian women players has dominated the African women's footballer of the year award, winning thirteen times out of the total 20 times. Assisat Oshola winning six times and Perpetual Nkwocha four times, complimented by Cynthia Uwak twice and Mercy Akide once.

Understanding the Voting Process

The voting process for the CAF Women's Player of the Year Award involves a panel of coaches and journalists from across Africa. These individuals evaluate the year's performances of various players, considering factors such as goals scored, assists, leadership qualities, and overall contributions to their teams. The nominees typically include players who have shone in major competitions, such as the African Women's Championship and the FIFA Women's World Cup.

2024: Barbra Banda 🇿🇲

In 2024, Barbra Banda from Zambia claimed the award with her remarkable performances throughout the year. Known for her explosive pace and clinical finishing, Banda was instrumental in her national team's success and left an indelible mark on international competitions. Her ability to influence games with her skill set and determination set her apart from the other contenders.

2023: Asisat Oshoala 🇳🇬

Nigerian superstar Asisat Oshoala continued her dominance in African women's football by winning the award in 2023. Her exceptional goal-scoring prowess and leadership on the pitch were pivotal in Nigeria's triumphs. Oshoala's consistent performances in club and international matches showcased her as a role model for many young athletes.

2022: Asisat Oshoala 🇳🇬

The year 2022 saw Asisat Oshoala again being recognized for her outstanding contributions to the game. Her ability to find the back of the net with ease and her versatility in various attacking roles made her an invaluable asset to her team. Oshoala's performances in key matches demonstrated her ability to deliver under pressure.

2019: Asisat Oshoala 🇳🇬

Asisat Oshoala's win in 2019 highlighted her continued excellence and influence in the sport. Her dynamic style of play and knack for scoring crucial goals were key factors in Nigeria's success in continental tournaments. Oshoala's commitment to improving her game and helping her team achieve victory remained evident throughout the year.

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2018: Thembi Kgatlana 🇿🇦

South African forward Thembi Kgatlana took home the award in 2018, marking a significant milestone in her career. Kgatlana's electrifying pace and flair on the ball made her a constant threat to opposing defenses. Her standout performances in the Africa Women Cup of Nations earned her widespread acclaim and solidified her status as one of the continent's best.

2017: Asisat Oshoala 🇳🇬

In 2017, Asisat Oshoala's exceptional talent and dedication were once again recognized with the CAF Women's Player of the Year Award. Her ability to dominate the field with her physicality and technical skills ensured her place as a leading figure in African women's football. Oshoala's impact extended beyond the pitch, as she inspired many young girls to pursue their football dreams.

2016: Asisat Oshoala 🇳🇬

Asisat Oshoala's triumph in 2016 was a testament to her consistent excellence and contribution to the sport. Her performances were characterized by her incredible speed, sharp instincts in front of goal, and the ability to create opportunities for teammates. Oshoala's influence was instrumental in Nigeria's success in various competitions.

2015: Gaëlle Enganamouit 🇨🇲

Cameroonian forward Gaëlle Enganamouit was honored with the award in 2015. Her powerful presence on the field and knack for scoring vital goals made her a standout performer. Enganamouit's performances in key matches, including the FIFA Women's World Cup, showcased her as a formidable talent in African football.

2014: Asisat Oshoala 🇳🇬

In 2014, Asisat Oshoala emerged as the winner due to her extraordinary impact on the field. Her performances in both the FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup and the Africa Women Championship demonstrated her ability to perform at the highest level. Oshoala's talent and work ethic were key factors in her team's success.

2012: Genoveva Añonma 🇬🇶

Equatorial Guinea's Genoveva Añonma captured the award in 2012, showcasing her exceptional skills and goal-scoring ability. Añonma's performances were characterized by her technical prowess and ability to find the net from difficult positions. Her contributions were crucial to her national team's achievements.

2011 & 2010: Perpetua Nkwocha 🇳🇬x2

Perpetua Nkwocha's back-to-back wins in 2011 and 2010 underscored her dominance in African women's football. Known for her leadership qualities and midfield mastery, Nkwocha's influence extended to all areas of the pitch. Her ability to control the tempo of the game and provide key assists made her an invaluable player.

2008: Noko Matlou 🇿🇦

South African forward Noko Matlou was celebrated for her exceptional performances in 2008. Matlou's agility and goal-scoring ability were instrumental in South Africa's successes on the international stage. Her ability to navigate tight defenses and deliver crucial goals set her apart as a top contender.

2007 & 2006: Cynthia Uwak 🇳🇬x2

Cynthia Uwak's consecutive victories in 2007 and 2006 highlighted her remarkable talent and contribution to Nigerian football. Her speed and precision in front of goal made her a constant threat to opposing defenses. Uwak's performances were integral to Nigeria's achievements during this period.

2005 & 2004: Perpetua Nkwocha 🇳🇬x2

Perpetua Nkwocha's wins in 2005 and 2004 further solidified her legacy as one of Africa's finest footballers. Her vision and creativity in midfield, combined with her goal-scoring ability, were pivotal in Nigeria's dominance in women's football during these years.

2003: Adjoa Bayor 🇬🇭

Ghanaian midfielder Adjoa Bayor was recognized for her exceptional talent and leadership on the field in 2003. Bayor's technical skills and ability to control the game from midfield were instrumental in Ghana's competitive performances. Her creativity and vision made her a key player for her team.

2002: Alberta Sackey 🇬🇭

In 2002, Alberta Sackey from Ghana claimed the award, showcasing her impressive skills and goal-scoring ability. Sackey's performances were marked by her tenacity and determination, as she consistently delivered standout performances for her national team.

2001: Mercy Akide 🇳🇬

The inaugural winner of the CAF Women's Player of the Year Award in 2001 was Nigeria's Mercy Akide. Her exceptional talent and contributions to Nigerian football set a high standard for future award recipients. Akide's skillful play and goal-scoring prowess were instrumental in Nigeria's successes during her tenure.

Each winner of the CAF Women's Player of the Year Award has made significant contributions to the sport, inspiring future generations and elevating the status of African women's football on the global stage.

2001[4] – Mercy Akide, Nigeria

2002[5] – Alberta Sackey, Ghana

2003[5][6] – Adjoa Bayor, Ghana

2004[5] – Perpetua Nkwocha, Nigeria

2005[5] – Perpetua Nkwocha, Nigeria

2006[7] – Cynthia Uwak, Nigeria

2007[8] – Cynthia Uwak, Nigeria

2008[9] – Noko Matlou, South Africa

2009[10] – not awarded

2010[11] – Perpetua Nkwocha, Nigeria

2011[12] – Perpetua Nkwocha, Nigeria

2012[13] – Genoveva Añonma, Equatorial Guinea