TotalEnergies CAF AFCON 2025: Know the Coach: Marc Brys (Cameroon)
Marc Brys’ arrival as head coach of Cameroon’s national team in April 2024 brought a breath of fresh air to the Indomitable Lions.
Tasked with reviving a team in transition, the Belgian tactician took over from Rigobert Song after Cameroon’s underwhelming performance at the previous AFCON.
Brys wasted no time making his mark, leading the Lions to an unbeaten qualification campaign for AFCON 2025 and finishing atop Group J with 14 points.
With his wealth of club-level experience and a clear tactical philosophy, Brys is determined to steer Cameroon back to continental glory.
Factfile
- Name: Marc Brys
- Date of Birth: May 10, 1962
- Place of Birth: Antwerp, Belgium
- Age: 62
- Nationality: Belgian
Coaching Journey
Brys began his coaching career in 1998 with KVC Delta Londerzeel in Belgium. Over the next two decades, he built an impressive résumé, managing a variety of clubs in Belgium (including Germinal Beerschot, KV Mechelen, and OH Leuven), the Netherlands (FC Eindhoven and Den Bosch), and Saudi Arabia (Al-Raed FC and Al-Faisaly FC).
Joining Cameroon marked Brys’ first foray into international management. His extensive club experience has equipped him with the ability to adapt to different environments, a skill he has leveraged to unify Cameroon’s squad and instill confidence in his players.
Style of Play
A proponent of the 4-3-3 formation, Brys emphasizes a balance between controlled possession, quick transitions, and offensive penetration. He is known for fostering a positive team environment where players are encouraged to take responsibility on the pitch while adhering to a clear tactical plan.
In his own words:
"I strive to give my players clarity, confidence, and a structured game plan. I believe in unlocking their potential while maintaining a collective focus on the team’s goals."
Experience at the AFCON
AFCON 2025 will be Brys’ first experience as a head coach at the tournament. However, his successful management of Cameroon during the qualifiers demonstrates his readiness to embrace the challenge of leading the Indomitable Lions on Africa’s biggest stage.
Did You Know?
- Marc Brys is the first Cameroon coach to complete an AFCON qualification campaign unbeaten since his compatriot Hugo Broos, who led the Lions to their 2017 AFCON triumph.
- He has managed over 15 professional teams across three continents, showcasing his global football expertise.
Marc Brys’ meticulous preparation, tactical acumen, and emphasis on team cohesion make him a crucial asset for Cameroon as they aim to reignite their dominance in African football. With the Belgian at the helm, the Indomitable Lions are well-positioned to mount a serious challenge for the title in Morocco.