BTvNEWS

African stars shine across men’s, women’s, goalkeeper and young-player categories as continent strengthens presence on football’s biggest stage

By AbdulHakeem Mutiu Adejumo-Ajeseku, Abuja, Nigeria

BTV NEWS: African footballers have secured several spots across the various categories of the 2026 Ballon d’Or awards, with Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi, Senegal forward Sadio Mané, and Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha among the continent’s leading nominees following an historic year for African football.

Hakimi, who helped Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) secure Champions League glory and also captained Morocco during their impressive campaign, is joined on the men’s senior shortlist by fellow African star Sadio Mané.

Meanwhile, Yassine Bounou, Edouard Mendy and Vozinha have been nominated for the Goalkeeper of the Year award, further highlighting Africa’s growing representation among the world’s elite football talents.

Blueprint reports that Hakimi enjoyed a remarkable campaign with PSG, making 49 appearances, while contributing four goals and 17 assists. He also received six yellow cards and one red card during the season.

The Morocco international’s trophy haul includes the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Super Cup and Ligue 1 titles, while his AFCON title remains subject to the outcome of a ruling by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

Mané, meanwhile, continued his prolific form with Al-Nassr, scoring 24 goals and providing 13 assists in 55 appearances.

The Senegalese forward’s only major trophy during the period under review was the Saudi Pro League title.

On the women’s side, Tabitha Chawinga enjoyed another outstanding campaign with Kansas City Current, scoring 15 goals and providing three assists in 22 matches.

The Malawian forward also won the NWSL Shield and was among the standout performers during her historic WAFCON debut, although her side ultimately lost the final to Cameroon.

Ceremony Set for London

The 2026 Ballon d’Or awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on Monday, October 26, in London, England.

The prestigious event will bring together some of the world’s leading footballers as winners in the various categories are announced.

The strong African representation across the senior men’s, women’s, young talent and goalkeeper categories further underlines the continent’s growing influence and presence at the highest level of world football.

Established stars such as Hakimi and Mané are joined by an emerging generation of African and Africa-connected talents, including Bouaddi, Diomande and Maza, signalling a promising future for the continent on the global football stage.