For the first time in the history of the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations, four of the semi-finals coaches are from AFRICA! A significant improvement to the development of the African football coaching system.
Senegal Pape Thiew took over from Aliou Cisse after serving as an interim in 2024 and is known for his direct attacking football.
Speaking ahead of their contest with Egypt, he said, “We are preparing for this match with great focus, fully aware of the strong Egyptian side we will face. They are tactically disciplined and experienced.
We respect this challenge but are determined to win and reach the final. We remain committed to our playing philosophy, which we believe will make a difference.”
Egypt’s Hossam Hassan – If you know African football story and history well, you should know Hossam Hassan. A twin & a prolific goal poacher in his playing days. He scored 66 goals in 177 games for the Pharaohs of Egypt.
If Egypt go past Senegal, it will be their 10th appearance in the AFCON finals.
He was respectful when talking about his opponent on Tuesday. He said, “Senegal is not considered a bogey team for the Egyptian national team, which has won the African championship seven times. The players believe opponents play with fear against them. The team is approaching the semi-final with respect and thorough preparation, feeling mentally ready and aware of both their own strengths and those of their opponent.”
Nigeria Eric Chelle is a former Malian International, a centre-back, who enjoyed tackling attackers. Born in the Ivory Coast, Chelle guided Mali to the AFCON 2023 quarter-final.
Over time, since he was appointed as the Super Eagles head coach, he has slowly transformed the West African side into a dominant force to reckon with.
Morocco is a strong team with both strengths and weaknesses. Brahim Díaz is a talented player, and the team as a whole is impressive. We are prepared for any situation. We will give our all and treat every match like it is our last,” Chelle said when answering media questions on Tuesday.
Host Morocco head coach Walid Regragui is a prominent name in African football for many reasons. Today, he told journalists in the post-match conference that Morocco is about a positive result.
One of his highs was when he guided Morocco to the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup!
“Coaching the Moroccan national team means every result is closely examined. I dedicate myself entirely to my country and accept the criticism that comes with it.
An AFCON semi-final is distinct from a World Cup semi-final. Previously, we were considered a surprise, but now expectations are higher. Our goal is to reach the final and lift the continental trophy.”
History- Only two African legends – Mohamed El-Gohary and late Stephen Keshi, have won the AFCON both as players and coaches. Hassan Hassan could join the list.
