Mokoena, Semenyo among stars nominated for CAF’s top individual award

Ghana forward Antoine Semenyo has been nominated for the 2026 CAF Men’s Player of the Year award, joining a star-studded 10-man shortlist unveiled by the Confederation of African Football.

Semenyo is among the leading names competing for the continent’s top individual football honour, alongside reigning winner Achraf Hakimi, Senegal captain Sadio Mané and Real Madrid midfielder Brahim Díaz.

The Ghanaian faces competition from Manchester United winger Amad Diallo, DR Congo forward Yoane Wissa, Morocco’s Ismael Saibari, Senegal duo Ismaïla Sarr and Pape Gueye, and South Africa midfielder Teboho Mokoena.

Hakimi will be seeking to retain the award after winning the 2025 edition, while Mané will be aiming to add another African Player of the Year title to his collection.

Semenyo’s inclusion represents a significant recognition for Ghana, with the forward earning a place among the continent’s leading performers following his contributions at club and international level.

Mokoena’s nomination also provides South Africa with representation in the category, following his performances for Mamelodi Sundowns and the national team.

The 10 nominees will now await the final decision, with the winner set to be announced at the 2026 CAF Awards ceremony in Lagos, Nigeria, on December 7.

Kwaku Nii

Kwaku Nii is an experienced football writer with a strong background in African football reporting. He has spent over five years working as a freelance journalist, covering matches, transfers and key developments across the continent.He is university educated and has built a reputation for his deep knowledge of the African game, supported by a wide network of contacts within the football industry.Kwaku brings valuable insight, consistency and on-the-ground perspective to his reporting, making him a trusted voice in covering African football stories.He is currently a Staff Writer at African.Football, where he contributes to delivering informed, engaging and reliable football content to a global audience.

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