TotalEnergies CAF AFCON 2025: Five Coaches to Watch
As we count down to the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025 in Morocco, five exceptional coaches stand out as key figures shaping the destinies of their respective national teams.
From seasoned tacticians to innovative leaders, these coaches bring unique approaches, ambitions, and strategies to the tournament.
Their ability to inspire and adapt will undoubtedly influence the course of Africa’s most prestigious football competition.
Emerse Faé: An Innovative and Dynamic Approach
Former Ivorian midfielder Emerse Faé has brought a fresh and modern perspective to Cote d'Ivoire national team.
Since transitioning from his playing career to coaching, Faé has earned a reputation for combining his experiences in European and African football with a strategic mindset.
Known for nurturing young talent, his offensive, possession-based style of play has been a hallmark of his tenure.
Under Faé's leadership, the Elephants aim to defend their AFCON title with the same fighting spirit that saw them crowned champions in the last edition.
His ability to maximize the potential of young players will be crucial as he strives to achieve the ambitious goal of securing a historic consecutive title win.
Hugo Broos: The Master of Stability and Results
Belgian coach Hugo Broos is no stranger to success in African football, having guided Cameroon to the AFCON title in 2017.
More recently, he led South Africa to an impressive bronze medal at the last tournament, solidifying his reputation as one of the most respected coaches on the continent.
Broos’s pragmatic and methodical approach focuses on defensive solidity and swift transitions.
As he prepares South Africa for AFCON 2025, he will look to balance the stability of his seasoned players with the dynamism of emerging talents, crafting a team capable of challenging for the title.
Hossam Hassan: Revitalizing Egyptian Football
Hossam Hassan, a legendary figure in Egyptian football, brings a wealth of experience and tactical acumen to the Pharaohs.
Known for his direct style of play and relentless pressing, Hassan embodies the qualities that once made Egypt a dominant force in African football.
Tasked with rejuvenating an Egyptian side in transition following a Round of 16 exit in the last AFCON, Hassan’s leadership will be pivotal.
His tactical intelligence and motivational skills will aim to restore Egypt’s status as a top contender, guiding them to renewed success.
James Kwesi Appiah: Visionary Leadership for Sudan
A respected name in African football, James Kwesi Appiah has extensive experience on the international stage, including leading Ghana at the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
Renowned for his disciplined approach and meticulous tactical preparation, Appiah now focuses on Sudan, a team eager to make an impact.
Appiah’s challenge lies in striking the right balance between youthful energy and veteran experience.
His aim is to build a competitive team capable of holding its own against Africa’s football giants, with an eye on leaving a lasting impression at AFCON 2025.
Sébastien Desabre: French Precision Meets African Flair
French tactician Sébastien Desabre has established himself as a transformative figure in African football.
Known for his disciplined, tactically rigorous style, Desabre has revitalized the DR Congo national team, bolstering their defensive structure while injecting a dynamic offensive approach.
With his adaptability and strategic prowess, Desabre is poised to lead the Leopards to new heights.
His ability to manage diverse challenges and elevate team performance makes him a formidable contender for the AFCON title.
