Historic entry of Moroccan Ghizlane Chebbak in the ranking of the 100 best players 2025

– bySaid · 2 min read
Historic entry of Moroccan Ghizlane Chebbak in the ranking of the 100 best players 2025

The annual ranking of the 100 best female footballers in the world for 2025 marks a turning point for Moroccan and African football. At 35 years old, the captain of the Atlas Lionesses, Ghizlane Chebbak, makes a historic entry into this prestigious ranking, crowning an exceptional year both in the national team and at the continental level.

An iconic figure of national football, Chebbak finally sees her consistency rewarded at the highest level. While her club career, marked by an experience in Spain, has sometimes been discreet, it is under the jersey of Morocco that she has dazzled the football world. Scoring five goals during the Africa Cup of Nations, including a memorable shot in the final, she led her team to the last step. Although the trophy eluded the Moroccans against Nigeria (2-3) in a boiling Rabat stadium, the individual performance of the midfielder was unanimously acclaimed. Designated Player of the Year by CAF, she becomes the first Moroccan to receive this distinction since its creation. "It is the fruit of many years of hard work," she said emotionally.

This 2025 edition confirms the rise of African talents. Nigerian Rasheedat Ajibade also makes her first appearance in the Top 100. Captain of the Super Falcons, she guided her country to the continental title, being named best player of the tournament in Morocco. Her coach praises her "energy" and "exemplary leadership".

Other players from the continent stand out, such as Esther Okoronkwo, decisive in the CAN final with two assists and a goal, or the Zambian Racheal Kundananji, who is making her third consecutive appearance thanks to her performances in the NWSL.

At the international level, the hierarchy is evolving. Australian star Caitlin Foord maintains her place thanks to a European title with Arsenal, while Brazilian Debinha continues to shine in the United States despite injuries. England’s Millie Bright, who has become the most capped player in WSL history, remains an essential defensive reference.

The ranking also highlights the new generation. Young American Lily Yohannes (18) and Norwegian Signe Gaupset (20) make remarkable entries, symbolizing the future of the discipline. Finally, French-Moroccan Sakina Karchaoui continues to establish herself as one of the best in her position, now displaying her ambitions of victory in the Champions League with PSG.