{"id":5204,"date":"2025-10-23T17:02:00","date_gmt":"2025-10-23T14:02:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.betsure.com\/ug\/news\/?p=5204"},"modified":"2026-04-08T18:00:08","modified_gmt":"2026-04-08T15:00:08","slug":"fiston-mayele-dr-congo-pyramids-forward-the-only-african-based-player-on-african-player-of-the-year-shortlist","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/fiston-mayele-dr-congo-pyramids-forward-the-only-african-based-player-on-african-player-of-the-year-shortlist\/","title":{"rendered":"Fiston Mayele: DR Congo &#038; Pyramids Forward The Only African-Based Player on African Player of the Year Shortlist"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When the Confederation of African Football (CAF) released its shortlist for the 2025 <strong>African Player of the Year<\/strong>, 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 \u2014 <strong>Fiston Mayele<\/strong>, the Congolese striker representing <strong>Pyramids FC<\/strong> in Egypt, emerged as the <strong>only Africa-based player<\/strong> on the list.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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 \u2014 even within Africa\u2019s own leagues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>A Rare Honor in Modern African Football<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In recent years, the CAF Men\u2019s Player of the Year shortlist has been dominated by Europe-based stars. From Mohamed Salah to Sadio Man\u00e9 and Victor Osimhen, the trend has been clear: to win, you play in Europe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fiston Mayele\u2019s inclusion challenges that norm. It proves that <strong>Africa-based players can still compete with global heavyweights<\/strong>, provided they deliver consistent, elite-level performances in both club and international competitions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His nomination represents recognition not just for him, but for African football as a whole \u2014 a validation of the growing strength of the <strong>CAF Champions League<\/strong>, <strong>CAF Confederation<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/sports\/Handball\"><strong> Cup<\/strong>,<\/a> and other continental tournaments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"566\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/image-153-1024x566.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-5205\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/image-153-1024x566.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/image-153-300x166.png 300w, https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/image-153-768x424.png 768w, https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/image-153-150x83.png 150w, https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/image-153-696x385.png 696w, https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/image-153-1068x590.png 1068w, https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/image-153.png 1082w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Who Is Fiston Mayele?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mayele\u2019s football journey began in Kinshasa before his talent took him to clubs like <strong>Young Africans SC<\/strong> in Tanzania, where he became a household name.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His goal-scoring record and explosive playing style soon attracted attention from top African clubs. When he joined <strong>Pyramids FC<\/strong> in Egypt, he brought both flair and finishing power \u2014 quickly becoming one of the club\u2019s most dependable forwards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mayele is known for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Exceptional pace and strength in one-on-one duels.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A killer instinct inside the box.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tireless movement that stretches defenses.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Leadership and humility that inspire teammates.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Why His Nomination Matters<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Recognition for African-Based Excellence<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mayele\u2019s nomination is proof that footballers playing on the continent can still reach the highest levels of recognition. It\u2019s a message to aspiring African players that <strong>you don\u2019t need to move abroad to be great<\/strong>&nbsp; excellence at home counts too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Pyramids FC\u2019s Continental Success<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Congolese striker has been instrumental in Pyramids FC\u2019s 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\u2019s most valuable forwards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>A Win for the DR Congo National Team<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At the international level, Mayele continues to shine for <strong>DR Congo<\/strong>, helping them in World Cup qualifiers and continental tournaments. His influence on and off the pitch makes him one of the country\u2019s most celebrated football exports.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>A Turning Point for African Awards<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">CAF\u2019s decision to shortlist a home-based player is a statement: that African football is evolving \u2014 and it deserves global respect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The 2025 African Player of the Year Shortlist<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Among the top 10 contenders for the 2025 award, Fiston Mayele\u2019s name shines brightly alongside several global icons. The list includes superstars from Europe\u2019s biggest clubs \u2014 yet Mayele stands alone as the only player still competing on African soil.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Shortlisted Players (2025):<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Fiston Mayele (DR Congo \/ Pyramids FC)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mohamed Salah (Egypt \/ Liverpool)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Achraf Hakimi (Morocco \/ Paris Saint-Germain)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Victor Osimhen (Nigeria \/ Galatasaray)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Denis Bouanga (Gabon \/ LAFC)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa (Cameroon \/ Napoli)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Serhou Guirassy (Guinea \/ Borussia Dortmund)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Iliman Ndiaye (Senegal \/ Everton)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pape Matar Sarr (Senegal \/ Tottenham Hotspur)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Oussama Lamlioui (Morocco \/ RS Berkane)<br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While each of these players has had an outstanding season, Mayele\u2019s inclusion as the only home-based star is a massive milestone for African club football.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What Made Mayele Stand Out<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>&nbsp;CAF Champions League Heroics<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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\u2019s best finishers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>National Team Impact<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For DR Congo, Mayele\u2019s contributions have been pivotal. Whether scoring decisive goals or creating chances for teammates, he remains a consistent performer whenever he wears his nation\u2019s colors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Consistency and Professionalism<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>&nbsp;Inspiring Representation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mayele\u2019s nomination sends a message to millions of African footballers: <strong>you can make it big while staying in Africa<\/strong>. This inspiration could lead to greater investment, fan engagement, and media coverage for local leagues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Symbolism of Mayele\u2019s Achievement<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mayele\u2019s presence on the shortlist is more than personal success \u2014 it\u2019s symbolic of the <strong>rebirth of African football pride<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This moment challenges the old narrative that \u201creal football success\u201d only happens overseas. Instead, it proves that Africa can produce, develop, and celebrate its own stars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"650\" height=\"430\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/image-154.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-5206\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/image-154.png 650w, https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/image-154-300x198.png 300w, https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/image-154-150x99.png 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Voice of the Fans<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Across social media and sports communities, African fans have expressed pride in Mayele\u2019s nomination. Many see it as a victory for <strong>homegrown talent<\/strong> and a sign that African football is earning the respect it deserves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cMayele\u2019s name on the list means every young African striker has hope again.\u201d<br>\u2014 Football fan in Kinshasa<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cIt\u2019s time we celebrate our stars before Europe does. Mayele deserves this.\u201d<br>\u2014 Sports journalist in Kampala<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What This Means for African Clubs<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For African clubs, Mayele\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It may also encourage <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/sports\/Tennis\">CAF<\/a> and local federations to enhance broadcasting, marketing, and reward systems \u2014 so that African leagues continue to attract and retain top talent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/image-155-1024x576.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-5207\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/image-155-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/image-155-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/image-155-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/image-155-150x84.png 150w, https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/image-155-696x392.png 696w, https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/image-155-1068x601.png 1068w, https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/image-155.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Looking Ahead<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The big question now is: <strong>Can Fiston Mayele go all the way and win it?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Even if he doesn\u2019t, his nomination alone has shifted perceptions. It sets a new benchmark for recognition and inclusion. And for DR Congo and Pyramids FC, it\u2019s already a victory worth celebrating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His story will motivate countless players across the continent \u2014 those training on dusty pitches, chasing the same dream \u2014 to keep pushing, knowing the world is finally watching Africa again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fiston Mayele\u2019s rise from Congolese football to becoming the <strong>only Africa-based player on the CAF Player of the Year shortlist<\/strong> is more than just an honor \u2014 it\u2019s a symbol of belief.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The belief that African players can reach greatness without leaving their home soil.<br>Belief that Africa\u2019s clubs can compete, attract attention, and produce global stars.<br>Belief that the future of football doesn\u2019t have to be exported \u2014 it can thrive right here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As the continent watches the awards unfold, one thing is certain: <strong>Fiston Mayele has already won something far greater than a trophy \u2014 he\u2019s won Africa\u2019s respect.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Bangbet Sports Voice<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Stories like Mayele\u2019s remind us why we love the game \u2014 for its power to unite, inspire, and elevate. Whether you\u2019re cheering from Kinshasa, Kampala, or Cairo, greatness begins with passion, not geography.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Visit <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\"><strong>Bangbet<\/strong><\/a> to follow more African football stories, live match updates, and exclusive sports insights.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>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 \u2014 Fiston Mayele, the [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":5201,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-5204","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-others"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5204","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5204"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5204\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5693,"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5204\/revisions\/5693"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5201"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5204"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5204"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bangbet.com\/ug\/temps\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5204"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}