By: Kwame Bediako
Black Queens captain Portia Boakye has been nominated for the prestigious 2025 CAF Women’s Player of the Year award following her outstanding leadership and performances at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
The veteran defender’s contributions were vital in securing Ghana’s bronze medal finish.
Boakye, 36, played a crucial role in guiding the Black Queens back to a major international tournament after a seven-year absence.
Her commanding presence and defensive prowess earned her a spot in the tournament’s Team of the Competition, highlighting her influence throughout the event.
She will face stiff competition for the award from top African talents, including Malawi’s dynamic duo Tabitha Chawinga and Temwa Chawinga, Morocco’s Ghizlane Chebbak and Sanaa Mssoudy, as well as Nigerian stars Esther Okoronkwo and Rasheedat Ajibade. Other notable nominees are Zambia’s Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji and Senegal’s Mama Diop.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has yet to announce the date and final shortlist for the awards ceremony, but anticipation is building across the continent. Boakye’s nomination underscores her status as one of Africa’s premier women’s footballers.
Next week, Boakye will reunite with the Black Queens as the team begins preparations for their upcoming WAFCON qualifiers against Egypt. The captain’s experience and leadership will be critical as Ghana aims for another strong showing on the continental stage.
