TotalEnergies CAF AFCON 2025: Know the Coach: Sébastien Desabre (DR Congo)
The Democratic Republic of Congo’s head coach Sébastien Desabre has built a reputation as one of the most experienced and tactically astute managers on the African continent.
With a coaching journey spanning over a decade and multiple countries, Desabre has consistently demonstrated his ability to transform teams into competitive units, earning accolades and respect along the way.
At 48, the French-born tactician brings a wealth of experience, having worked across some of the continent’s most competitive leagues and clubs.
From guiding Uganda to the knockout stages of the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON in 2019 to leading DR Congo back into continental prominence, Desabre’s career highlights his ability to adapt to varying challenges and elevate teams under his stewardship.
Name: Sébastien Desabre
Birthplace: Valence, France
Age: 48
Team: Democratic Republic of Congo
Coaching Career
Desabre began his managerial career in France with ES Le Cannet-Rocheville before moving to Africa in 2010 to take charge of Côte d’Ivoire’s ASEC Mimosas, where he clinched multiple domestic titles.
His success continued in Cameroon with Coton Sport, guiding them to the league championship and a CAF Champions League semi-final berth in the 2012/13 season.
Following stints in Tunisia with Espérance Sportive de Tunis and Angola’s Recreativo Desportivo Libolo, where he won the Angolan Super Cup, Desabre expanded his repertoire across several other African nations.
He secured a Moroccan league title with Wydad Athletic Club, revitalized Egypt’s Ismaily SC, and later coached Uganda, leading them to the 2019 TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Round of 16.
Desabre’s European experience includes a tenure at French Ligue 2 side Chamois Niortais, but his heart remains in Africa, where his tactical nous and motivational skills shine.
Since 2022, he has taken charge of DR Congo’s national team, steering the Leopards to a flawless qualifying campaign for the 2025 AFCON with an unbeaten record in competitive fixtures.
Coaching Philosophy and Style of Play
Desabre emphasizes tactical discipline and collective organization, blending solid defensive structures with swift counterattacking play.
His approach revolves around maximizing team cohesion and utilizing a dynamic midfield capable of quick recoveries and precise transitions.
“We have a team capable of competing with Africa’s best. The key is maintaining tactical discipline and optimizing our offensive potential,” Desabre remarked following a crucial qualifying victory.
Under his guidance, the Leopards have displayed remarkable resilience, remaining unbeaten in eight competitive matches leading to AFCON 2025.
Experience at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations
Desabre’s first AFCON experience came in 2019 with Uganda, where he masterminded the Cranes’ qualification for the Round of 16, only to lose narrowly to Senegal.
His second outing, leading DR Congo, is poised to build on this success as he aims to guide the Leopards deep into the tournament in Morocco.
Did You Know?
Sébastien Desabre’s tenure with DR Congo marks his 11th coaching stint in Africa, where he has spent 14 years building a storied legacy in African football.