When the Confederation of African Football (CAF) released its shortlist for the 2025 African Player of the Year, football fans across the continent celebrated the return of African excellence to the global stage. But amid a lineup of world-class stars playing in Europe, one name stood out for a different reason — Fiston Mayele, the Congolese striker representing Pyramids FC in Egypt, emerged as the only Africa-based player on the list.
This achievement is not only a personal triumph for Mayele but also a symbolic victory for African domestic football. It highlights the fact that true talent can shine anywhere — even within Africa’s own leagues.
A Rare Honor in Modern African Football
In recent years, the CAF Men’s Player of the Year shortlist has been dominated by Europe-based stars. From Mohamed Salah to Sadio Mané and Victor Osimhen, the trend has been clear: to win, you play in Europe.
Fiston Mayele’s inclusion challenges that norm. It proves that Africa-based players can still compete with global heavyweights, provided they deliver consistent, elite-level performances in both club and international competitions.
His nomination represents recognition not just for him, but for African football as a whole — a validation of the growing strength of the CAF Champions League, CAF Confederation Cup, and other continental tournaments.
Who Is Fiston Mayele?
Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mayele’s football journey began in Kinshasa before his talent took him to clubs like Young Africans SC in Tanzania, where he became a household name.
His goal-scoring record and explosive playing style soon attracted attention from top African clubs. When he joined Pyramids FC in Egypt, he brought both flair and finishing power — quickly becoming one of the club’s most dependable forwards.
Mayele is known for:
- Exceptional pace and strength in one-on-one duels.
- A killer instinct inside the box.
- Tireless movement that stretches defenses.
- Leadership and humility that inspire teammates.
Why His Nomination Matters
Recognition for African-Based Excellence
Mayele’s nomination is proof that footballers playing on the continent can still reach the highest levels of recognition. It’s a message to aspiring African players that you don’t need to move abroad to be great excellence at home counts too.
Pyramids FC’s Continental Success
The Congolese striker has been instrumental in Pyramids FC’s strong performances across African competitions. His goals and assists have helped his club secure key wins in both the Egyptian Premier League and CAF tournaments, making him one of the continent’s most valuable forwards.
A Win for the DR Congo National Team
At the international level, Mayele continues to shine for DR Congo, helping them in World Cup qualifiers and continental tournaments. His influence on and off the pitch makes him one of the country’s most celebrated football exports.
A Turning Point for African Awards
CAF’s decision to shortlist a home-based player is a statement: that African football is evolving — and it deserves global respect.
The 2025 African Player of the Year Shortlist
Among the top 10 contenders for the 2025 award, Fiston Mayele’s name shines brightly alongside several global icons. The list includes superstars from Europe’s biggest clubs — yet Mayele stands alone as the only player still competing on African soil.
Shortlisted Players (2025):
- Fiston Mayele (DR Congo / Pyramids FC)
- Mohamed Salah (Egypt / Liverpool)
- Achraf Hakimi (Morocco / Paris Saint-Germain)
- Victor Osimhen (Nigeria / Galatasaray)
- Denis Bouanga (Gabon / LAFC)
- André-Frank Zambo Anguissa (Cameroon / Napoli)
- Serhou Guirassy (Guinea / Borussia Dortmund)
- Iliman Ndiaye (Senegal / Everton)
- Pape Matar Sarr (Senegal / Tottenham Hotspur)
- Oussama Lamlioui (Morocco / RS Berkane)
While each of these players has had an outstanding season, Mayele’s inclusion as the only home-based star is a massive milestone for African club football.
What Made Mayele Stand Out
CAF Champions League Heroics
Mayele played a crucial role in leading Pyramids FC through the CAF Champions League campaign. His goals and leadership propelled the Egyptian side into the later stages, cementing his reputation as one of Africa’s best finishers.
National Team Impact
For DR Congo, Mayele’s contributions have been pivotal. Whether scoring decisive goals or creating chances for teammates, he remains a consistent performer whenever he wears his nation’s colors.
Consistency and Professionalism
Unlike many flashy forwards, Mayele is known for consistency. His work ethic, discipline, and ability to deliver in high-pressure games have earned him admiration from both fans and opponents.
Inspiring Representation
Mayele’s nomination sends a message to millions of African footballers: you can make it big while staying in Africa. This inspiration could lead to greater investment, fan engagement, and media coverage for local leagues.
The Symbolism of Mayele’s Achievement
Mayele’s presence on the shortlist is more than personal success — it’s symbolic of the rebirth of African football pride.
For decades, African talent has been exported to Europe in search of better opportunities. But as domestic leagues and clubs like Pyramids, Al Ahly, TP Mazembe, Mamelodi Sundowns, and others grow stronger, more players are finding success and visibility right at home.
This moment challenges the old narrative that “real football success” only happens overseas. Instead, it proves that Africa can produce, develop, and celebrate its own stars.
The Voice of the Fans
Across social media and sports communities, African fans have expressed pride in Mayele’s nomination. Many see it as a victory for homegrown talent and a sign that African football is earning the respect it deserves.
“Mayele’s name on the list means every young African striker has hope again.”
— Football fan in Kinshasa
“It’s time we celebrate our stars before Europe does. Mayele deserves this.”
— Sports journalist in Kampala
What This Means for African Clubs
For African clubs, Mayele’s achievement is an encouraging sign. It shows that investment in training facilities, player welfare, and professional management can yield results visible at the highest levels.
It may also encourage CAF and local federations to enhance broadcasting, marketing, and reward systems — so that African leagues continue to attract and retain top talent.
Looking Ahead
The big question now is: Can Fiston Mayele go all the way and win it?
Even if he doesn’t, his nomination alone has shifted perceptions. It sets a new benchmark for recognition and inclusion. And for DR Congo and Pyramids FC, it’s already a victory worth celebrating.
His story will motivate countless players across the continent — those training on dusty pitches, chasing the same dream — to keep pushing, knowing the world is finally watching Africa again.
Final Thoughts
Fiston Mayele’s rise from Congolese football to becoming the only Africa-based player on the CAF Player of the Year shortlist is more than just an honor — it’s a symbol of belief.
The belief that African players can reach greatness without leaving their home soil.
Belief that Africa’s clubs can compete, attract attention, and produce global stars.
Belief that the future of football doesn’t have to be exported — it can thrive right here.
As the continent watches the awards unfold, one thing is certain: Fiston Mayele has already won something far greater than a trophy — he’s won Africa’s respect.
Betsure Sports Voice
Stories like Mayele’s remind us why we love the game — for its power to unite, inspire, and elevate. Whether you’re cheering from Kinshasa, Kampala, or Cairo, greatness begins with passion, not geography.
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