Nigeria’s rising women’s football star, Shakirat Moshood, has been named among the final three nominees for the prestigious 2025 CAF Women’s Young Player of the Year award, solidifying her position as one of the continent’s brightest young talents. The announcement comes as a significant milestone for the teenager who has demonstrated remarkable consistency for both club and country over the past year.
Moshood, who captained Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team—the Flamingos—at the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco, earned widespread praise for her leadership, composure, and attacking contributions throughout the tournament. Despite the team’s exit in the Round of 16, her performance did not go unnoticed, with analysts, scouts, and fans commending her technical ability, vision, and strength on the ball.
Under the guidance of head coach Bankole Olowookere, the Flamingos entered the tournament with high expectations, following their impressive third-place finish at the previous edition. While their 2025 campaign ended earlier than anticipated, Moshood’s impact remained a standout feature. Her presence on the pitch reflected confidence beyond her age, inspiring teammates and drawing admiration from football enthusiasts across the African continent.
At club level, Moshood continued to shine for Bayelsa Queens, contributing decisively to the team’s success in domestic competitions. She played an integral role in the club’s triumph in the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) earlier in the year, showcasing her goal-scoring ability, work ethic, and leadership qualities. Her contributions were pivotal in Bayelsa Queens’ journey to reclaiming their dominance in Nigerian women’s football.
Her nomination for the CAF Women’s Young Player of the Year places her in strong contention alongside two formidable talents: Moha El Madani of Morocco, who won the award last year, and Senegal’s Adji Ndiye, another emerging force on the African football landscape. El Madani’s technical brilliance and Ndiye’s explosive style have shaped a competitive shortlist, setting the stage for what promises to be a closely contested decision.
The nomination also highlights the increasing recognition of Nigeria’s youth development in women’s football. Over the years, Nigeria has produced some of Africa’s finest female talents, many of whom rise from youth levels to dominate the senior national team, the Super Falcons. Moshood’s inclusion serves as further proof of the system’s impact and Nigeria’s continued relevance in African football.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s senior women’s national team, the Super Falcons, have also been shortlisted for the CAF Women’s National Team of the Year. The African champions face stiff competition from the Atlas Lionesses of Morocco and Ghana’s Black Queens, two teams that have demonstrated tremendous progress over the past year. The Moroccans, in particular, continue to benefit from heavy investment and strategic development, while the Black Queens have experienced a resurgence marked by improved squad depth and tactical evolution.
Moshood’s rise mirrors the broader growth of women’s football across Africa, with increased visibility, higher-level competitions, and stronger institutional support. CAF’s annual awards continue to play a critical role in celebrating excellence and inspiring the next generation of young players.
For the Flamingos captain, this nomination represents more than individual recognition—it stands as a celebration of her journey, discipline, and commitment to growing into one of Africa’s most influential footballers. At just 17, Moshood embodies the resilience and ambition required to break through in an increasingly competitive football environment. Her leadership at the U-17 World Cup showcased not only her football intelligence but also her ability to serve as a role model for younger players.
Football stakeholders across Nigeria have reacted positively to the news, applauding her development and the growing global attention directed at Nigerian women’s football. Many believe Moshood is poised for an impressive career that could soon see her earning a professional contract in Europe, where several top clubs have been monitoring her progress.
As the CAF Awards ceremony approaches, anticipation continues to build. Fans across Nigeria and Africa eagerly await the announcement to see whether Moshood will cap an impressive year with one of the continent’s highest individual honors. Winning the award would not only elevate her profile but also contribute to the strengthening of youth football at the grassroots level, encouraging more young girls to pursue their passion for the sport.
Regardless of the outcome, Moshood’s nomination confirms her as a star in the making—a symbol of promise for the future of African women’s football. Her journey reflects the power of dedication, opportunity, and national pride, making her a player to watch in the years ahead.
As Nigeria continues to assert itself on the African football stage, talents like Shakirat Moshood ensure the country’s legacy remains strong. The Flamingos captain stands at the beginning of what promises to be a long and successful career, and her recognition by CAF is only the beginning of greater accomplishments to come.
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