Akram Afif Aims for Historic Third AFC Player of the Year Award

Qatar’s national football team striker, Akram Afif, is poised to make history as he competes for his third AFC Player of the Year award. The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) announced the nominees today for the prestigious AFC Awards Riyadh 2025, setting the stage for a highly anticipated event.

The award ceremony, presented by NEOM, will take place on October 16, 2025, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Afif will face stiff competition from notable players including Arif Aiman Hanapi from Malaysia and Saudi Arabia’s Salem Al Dawsari, both of whom have also had outstanding seasons. In the women’s category, contenders include Holly McNamara, Wang Shuang, and Hana Takahashi.

Afif’s Stellar Season

After another remarkable season, Afif has solidified his reputation as one of Asia’s top talents. He previously won the award in 2019 and 2024, and his performance helped Al Sadd SC secure a record 18th league title while advancing to the quarter-finals of the AFC Champions League Elite in the 2024/25 season. The 28-year-old forward also played a crucial role during the AFC Asian Qualifiers, ensuring Qatar’s qualification for the AFC Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia in 2027 while keeping the team’s hopes alive for FIFA World Cup qualification.

Rising Stars and Established Talents

Arif Aiman Hanapi, the first Malaysian to receive a nomination, had a breakout season with Johor Darul Ta’zim. His five goals in the AFC Champions League Elite helped propel his team into the Round of 16, and he was instrumental in their domestic treble victory. At just 23, he is a key figure for Malaysia as they pursue their own qualification for the AFC Asian Cup.

Meanwhile, Salem Al Dawsari aims to add to his accolades after winning the award in 2022. The 34-year-old forward led Al Hilal SFC to the semi-finals of the AFC Champions League Elite, scoring a tournament-best 10 goals. His significant contributions also helped Al Hilal reach the quarter-finals of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, while he continues to shine on the international stage as Saudi Arabia seeks FIFA World Cup qualification.

The 29th edition of the AFC Awards will be hosted in Saudi Arabia for the first time, taking place at the prestigious King Fahd Cultural Center. The ceremony will recognize the continent’s finest talents across 20 award categories, celebrating the growth and success of Asian football.

The complete list of nominees for the AFC Awards Riyadh 2025 includes:

AFC Player of the Year
Arif Aiman Hanapi (Johor Darul Ta’zim FC and MAS)
Akram Afif (Al Sadd SC and QAT)
Salem Al Dawsari (Al Hilal SFC and KSA)

AFC Women’s Player of the Year
Holly McNamara (Melbourne City FC and AUS)
Wang Shuang (Wuhan Jiangda Women’s FC and CHN)
Hana Takahashi (Urawa Red Diamonds Ladies and JPN)

AFC Asian International Player of the Year (Men)
Mehdi Taremi (Internazionale/Olympiacos and IRN)
Takefusa Kubo (Real Sociedad and JPN)
Lee Kang-in (Paris Saint-Germain and KOR)

AFC Asian International Player of the Year (Women)
Stephanie Catley (Arsenal FC and AUS)
Maika Hamano (Chelsea FC and JPN)
Yui Hasegawa (Manchester City and JPN)

As the countdown to the ceremony begins, the spotlight remains on Afif, who stands on the brink of becoming the first player to win the AFC Player of the Year award three times. His journey reflects a dedication to excellence, inspiring teammates and fans alike across the continent.