AFCON

100 days to AFCON: How the favourites are shaping up

Published

3 years ago

October 2, 2021

Today, it is 100 days to go until the Africa Cup of Nations kicks off in Cameroon on January 9, ESPN‘s Ed Dove runs the rule over the top nine contenders for the continent’s grandest prize.

Cameroon

What’s their pedigree? Genuine African giants, Cameroon have won five AFCON’s, the Olympic gold in 2000, and have represented the continent at a record seven World Cups. Their run to the quarter-finals in 1990 has still never been surpassed.

How did they qualify? Qualified automatically as hosts, but Cameroon nonetheless had to compete in Group F of qualification, where their results — three wins, two draws, one defeat — did little for optimism.

Recent results: A 2-0 behind-closed-doors victory at home against Malawi was routine, but the 2-1 defeat away in the Cote d’Ivoire last month was concerning.

Star performers in form? Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa has established himself quickly as a key fulcrum in the Napoli team that has soared to the pinnacle of Serie A, while Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting has been among the goals for Bayern Munich this term. Goalkeeper Andre Onana remains suspended.

Any new faces? He’s not a new face, but Paul-Georges Ntep — twice capped by France — is back in the squad after two years in the international wilderness.

AFCON chances? Many questions abound about manager Toni Conceicao and his ability to get the most out of this squad, and home support could prove to be either a motivating factor or a major burden.

Algeria

What’s their pedigree? Two-time African champions, including at the most recent edition of the tournament in Egypt, Algeria have also qualified for four World Cups, last reaching the tournament in 2014.

How did they qualify? Held away in Zimbabwe and Zambia, but Algeria nonetheless cruised through qualification, remaining unbeaten and amassing 14 points.

Recent results: Currently enjoying an all-time African record undefeated streak, they smashed Djibouti 8-0 in September, before being held 1-1 by Burkina Faso in neutral Marrakesh.

Star performers in form? It’s been something of an underwhelming start to the season for Manchester City star Riyad Mahrez, who’s started just one Premier League game, although Andy Delort is in fine form in France. Islam Slimani, Mahdi Tahrat and Djamel Benlamri are all on an extensive injury list.

Any new faces? Belgium -based Reda Halaimia has been drafted into the squad to prove competition/cover for Youcef Atal and Mehdi Zeffane.

AFCON chances? Favourites for a reason, Algeria have the winning mentality, consistency in selection, and a potential Player of the Tournament in Mahrez. The only concern is the (many) ageing legs.

Ghana

What’s their pedigree? They were Africa’s top side in the early-to-mid 60s, but Ghana’s star has waned since; they’re without an AFCON title since 1982. However, the Black Stars did reach at least the semifinals in five consecutive tournaments between 2010 and 2017.

How did they qualify? Surprisingly strongly, considering recent turmoil. A 2-0 home victory over South Africa in November 2019 set the tone, although they did need victory over Sao Tome e Principe on the final matchday to guarantee progression.

Recent results: Head coach CK Akonnor paid with his job after falling to a 1-0 defeat in South Africa last month, even though the Black Stars had defeated Ethiopia — albeit narrowly — in their first World Cup qualifier. Milovan Rajevac is the new man at the helm.

Star performers in form? Thomas Partey will hope his injury misery at Arsenal is behind him, while Jordan Ayew’s extensive period without a goal is an increasing concern. At least Abdul Rahman Baba appears to be enjoying a new lease of life on loan at Reading.

Any new faces? Turkey-based Benjamin Tetteh and goalkeeper Jojo Wallocott of Swindon Town were the new boys in Rajevac’s first squad after returning to the top job.

AFCON chances? Not as strong on paper — as they have been in recent tournaments, while Rajevac will be under pressure to find a winning formula.

Nigeria

What’s their pedigree? They’ve won AFCON titles in three decades (1980, 1994, 2013) but should surely have achieved more considering the talent at their disposal over the years. No African team has ever ranked higher in the FIFA World Rankings than Nigeria’s climb to fifth in ’94.

How did they qualify? Eyebrows were raised when Nigeria conspired to throw away a four-goal lead at home against Sierra Leone, and then also draw with the Leone Stars away, but victories home and away against Benin and Lesotho saw them through.

Recent results: Impressive during the last international break, they cruised past Liberia with Kelechi Iheanacho on song, before a much-changed team — without any Premier League players due to the UK’s ban on players travelling to ‘red list’ countries — dispatched Cape Verde away.

Star performers in form? Victor Osimhen is enjoying the form of his life at Napoli, with seven goals in his last five games, although it’s been a slower start to the season for Iheanacho. Wilfred Ndidi’s consistency at Leicester City is contrasted with Alex iwobi’s inefficacy at Everton, while Watford’s Peter Etebo will miss out through injury.

Any new faces? Calvin Bassey of Glasgow Rangers was recently handed his maiden call-up, and looks to have moved above out-of-favour FC Porto left-back Zaidu Sanusi in the pecking order.

AFCON chances? Bubbling with talent, but coach Gernot Rohr still doesn’t truly convince, and an unsophisticated strategy may leave them just short again.

Tunisia

What’s their pedigree? Consistent qualifiers, although Tunisia have only reached the final four once, in 2019, since winning the title on home soil in 2004.

How did they qualify? Typically unruffled during qualification campaigns, this time around it was no different for Tunisia, whose haul of 16 points was the best on the continent. A draw in Tanzania was the only blemish.

Recent results: Took firm control of their World Cup qualifying group in September with a 3-0 second-half blitz of Equatorial Guinea and a 2-0 win away in Zambia.

Star performers in form? Three goals in eight Ligue 1 outings for the ageless Wahbi Khazri so far this term, even though Saint-Etienne appear in freefall. Lively Naim Sliti has recently made his return from injury.

Any new faces? Manchester United wonderkid Hannibal Mejbri, despite representing France up to U-17 level, made his debut against the Democratic Republic of Congo in June.

AFCON chances? They appear much weaker than three years ago at the World Cup, but no one will relish coming up against Tunisia in a Nations Cup knockout bout.

Egypt

What’s their pedigree? Unparalleled in the AFCON with a record seven titles, although ‘lesser’ countries have enjoyed far more success at the World Cup, where the Pharaohs have still never won a match.

How did they qualify? Two draws in their first two matches raised concerns, while failure to beat Kenya home or away dampened hopes of a post-AFCON 2017 bounce back.

Recent results: A 1-0 home victory over Angola and a 1-1 draw away in Gabon weren’t enough for Hossam El-Badry to keep his job, and Carlos Queiroz is the man the EFA have appointed to turn things around.

Star performers in form? Mohamed Salah is one of the hottest players in world football right now, with eight goals and two assists in eight appearances across the Premier League and Champions League so far this season.

Any new faces? Home-based trio Ibrahim Adel, Mohamed Sobhi, and Mohand Lashin were named in Queiroz’s first squad.

AFCON chances? With Salah, they can’t be ruled out, although this team feels far from a vintage Egypt squad.

Cote d’Ivoire

What’s their pedigree? Initially struggled to build on their AFCON success in Senegal in 1992, but the Ivorians’ Golden Generation reached three World Cups between 2006 and 2014, and won the Nations Cup in 2015.

How did they qualify? Overcame a shock defeat by Ethiopia in Gameweek Two to qualify in style from Group K.

Recent results: Held away in Mozambique in September, but bounced back to defeat Cameroon 2-1 in Abidjan, with Sebastian Haller netting twice.

Star performers in form? The aforementioned Haller has been in magnificent form, netting four on his Champions League debut against Sporting Lisbon. Franck Kessie isn’t enjoying the best start to the season with AC Milan as speculation about his future persists; he was sent off against Atletico Madrid in midweek. Captain Serge Aurier remains without a club, which isn’t ideal, although Wilfred Zaha and Nicolas Pepe can take encouragement from their recent form.

Any new faces? Haller only committed to the Ivory Coast late last year, while coach Patrice Beaumelle has begun to integrate several young players from the talented U-23 side.

AFCON chances? There’s considerable quality, particularly in wide areas, and if things click, Beaumelle could return to the pinnacle of the African game for a third time.

Morocco

What’s their pedigree? Either chronic underachievers or punching above their weight, depending on who you believe; Morocco have represented Africa at five World Cups, but haven’t won the AFCON since 1976.

How did they qualify? Still finding their feet under Vahid Halilhodzic, Morocco weren’t always fluid going forward, but they were nonetheless resilient. One goal conceded in six qualifiers is an outstanding record.

Recent results: Saw off Sudan 2-0 at home in Rabat in September, their away game against Guinea was postponed due to domestic strife in Conakry.

Star performers in form? It’s been a disappointing start to the season for Hakim Ziyech at Chelsea, but Sevilla duo Bono and YoussefEn-Nesyri (three La Liga goals so far) offer reassurance. Achraf Hakimi has made some bright contributions at Paris Saint-Germain so far.

Any new faces? Four fresh faces were called up last month, with Watford’s ex-France U-21 international Imran Louza the pick of the bunch.

AFCON chances? Could this be the year when Morocco end their AFCON wait? They’re not the complete package yet, but with talented options, a genuine goal threat, and an experienced manager, they appear well placed.

Senegal

What’s their pedigree? The most high-profile African national team never to win the Nations Cup, Senegal have been defeated finalists on two occasions. Their 2002 generation followed up an AFCON silver medal with progress to the World Cup quarterfinal.

How did they qualify? Took 14 points from their six group games, Senegal’s two goals conceded was bettered only by Morocco.

Recent results: Kicked off World Cup qualification with a home victory over Togo and a 3-1 win away at Congo-Brazzaville.

Star performers in form? Sadio Mane and Ismaila Sarr have three and four Premier League goals for Liverpool l and Watford respectively. Edouard Mendy and Kalidou Koulibaly are enjoying strong starts to the season, and Idrissa Gueye is enjoying an unusually purple patch in front of goal.

Any new faces? Senegal have enjoyed a series of excellent recent arrivals; Namlalys Mendy and Abdou Diallo made their debuts in March, Bamba Dieng and Bouna Sarr are expected to join them later this month.

AFCON chances? With so many players in form and at major European clubs, and with a settled structure under Aliou Cisse, Senegal may not have a better chance to finally win the AFCON.

-ESPN

AFCON

Cote d’Ivoire’s turn-around manager, Emerse Faé reveals his vision

Published

2 days ago

October 3, 2024

Kunle Solaja

Emerse Faé spoke exclusively with Cafonline.com about his journey as the head coach of the Ivorian national team, reflecting on the victory at the AFCON 2023 and sharing his ambitions for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations.

For Emerse Faé, the date of February 11, 2024, will forever mark a turning point. On that day, the former midfielder captured the hearts of an entire nation with his tactical approach that led Cote d’Ivoire to victory on home soil.

Having been crowned African champions, Faé is now focused on ensuring a bright future for the team. During the recent CAF Coaches Technical Symposium, he granted an exclusive interview to Cafonline.com.

Cafonline.com: What went through your mind when you took charge of Cote d’Ivoire during the Africa Cup of Nations?

Emerse Faé: Initially, I didn’t think twice. I accepted immediately because it’s my country, and I love my country. I’m not afraid of challenges or objectives, nor of taking risks. Knowing the group for a year and a half, I was confident in what we could bring to change the team’s mindset.

Thanks to God, we found success. As a young coach, I was previously unknown in this role. Had I failed at the AFCON, it would have been challenging for me to secure another opportunity in Côte d’Ivoire and Africa.

How has winning the Africa Cup of Nations changed your daily life?

It’s quite difficult to go out in Abidjan or even anywhere in Africa. During my last visit to Cameroon, I noticed many Ivorian supporters at the hotel wanting to take photos and engage with me. This shows a significant change.

My fame has significantly increased. However, I remain approachable and enjoy interaction. Sometimes, it’s tough to turn down a request for a photo or a football discussion. While things have changed, engaging with people remains a crucial part of my work. I try to take the positives from this situation, as it could be much more complex otherwise.

I’m delighted to share these moments with Ivoirians and Africans who appreciate my work.

What adjustments were made within the team to achieve these positive results?

We transformed the team’s mindset by strengthening the fighting spirit. This team needed confidence; it had immense potential but lacked assurance.

It required a big brother figure to provide encouragement during tough moments and to point out what wasn’t working.

God gave us a second chance, and it was unthinkable to let it slip away. Thus, we changed our mentality, became united, and learned to fight. Winning a cup at home is a real challenge, with Egypt being the last team to achieve this in 2006.

We knew we needed fighters to win this competition. We managed to instill a warrior spirit in our players, and we have resources available to us.

Why is it important for young African coaches to have the chance to lead their national teams?

It’s a great honour, especially since young African coaches in Europe face significant challenges. Leading a national team is a heavy responsibility. Too often, we are relegated to assistant roles or youth teams, but when senior positions arise, it becomes complicated.

Having the opportunity to coach Côte d’Ivoire is a point of pride for me, especially as my assistant is also a young coach with limited experience before this tournament. Yet, we were given our chance, and we seized it. I’m happy to show young African coaches and players that when you have a dream, you must believe in it from start to finish.

Regardless of the obstacles, never give up on your dreams.

How would you describe your collaboration with your assistant, Guy Demel? Was there a clear division of tasks between you two?

We are very close. We played together in the national team and often shared a room. He even introduced me to my wife, as they grew up together. Now, we can understand each other without speaking.

We analyze situations simultaneously without discussion. If one of us feels tired or unwell, the other steps in. He does a lot for me by trying to lighten my workload so that I can fully focus on the field.

I enjoy working alongside my big brother. Although it might be expected for him to take the lead due to his age, the reality is different. He has never complained about this role reversal and consistently approaches his responsibilities with the utmost seriousness, allowing me to remain calm and composed in my decisions.

As a local coach, do you receive the respect you deserve?

Yes! This is a first in sports: a coach takes charge of a team in full competition and leads them to victory. This coach took over a team at risk of elimination after a devastating 4-0 loss and managed to eliminate Senegal.

After an impressive tournament performance, the defending champions also triumphed against Nigeria in the final, the team that had previously defeated them in the group stage. I notice that my fellow coaches show me considerable respect, often congratulating me during their visits.

When they have the chance, they also promote me. It makes me happy to see the solidarity among African coaches, and I sincerely hope that my journey can inspire other local coaches to achieve their ambitions.

What are your current aspirations? What objectives do you wish to achieve?

I have big ambitions. First, it is crucial to qualify for the next AFCON and then win the tournament. Many believe our previous victory was merely due to luck, as it took just four wins to be crowned champions. Additionally, winning on home soil made it easier. Therefore, we are keen to qualify for the next edition and win it to demonstrate that our success was not merely a fluke.

The World Cup is also a goal, aiming for Côte d’Ivoire to regain its place on the international stage. Since 2014, our country has been absent from this event. We aspire to qualify and represent Africa, inspired by Morocco’s success in 2022, which greatly motivates us.

I want to share my ultimate goal, although I prefer to maintain some discretion. I have had the honor of being part of one of the most remarkable generations of the Ivorian national team. Although we did not win titles, our team was always regarded as one of the most talented. My dream now is to create an even more gifted generation than ours.

I am convinced that our team is full of exceptional talent. My goal is to form a formidable group that instills fear, as we did in 2006, and that brings titles back to Côte d’Ivoire. I want to be remembered as the young coach who surprised everyone by turning the situation around, revitalizing a country, and bringing joy back to its people. We will work tirelessly to ensure the sustainability of this legacy for Côte d’Ivoire.

How often are you recognized during your travels? Do you require protection or a bodyguard?

(Laughs.) In fact, there’s always a possibility of volunteers being present. Currently, being in my country, I don’t need security. I hope this continues because I enjoy spending time with my people. It’s something I truly love. And it’s not done with a bad mindset, so for now, I don’t feel the need for security.

I hope this lasts, and that people continue to treat me with respect and ask for photos, while being courteous, especially in the presence of my wife and daughters. This is also very important for them. At the moment, I don’t feel the need or desire to surround myself with bodyguards.

A word on your start to the campaign in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers?

We’ve had a good start because the objective was to win both matches in the first two rounds. Before we left, I explained to the players that our aim in October was to qualify for AFCON, so that we could eventually test other players in November and rotate the team. However, the goal for the next stage

-CAF

AFCON

Nigeria confirms Eguavoen as Super Eagles head coach

Published

1 week ago

September 26, 2024

Kunle Solaja

Like Cote d’Ivoire did when the Elephants were left coachless during the last Africa Nations Cup and had to look inward and conscript Emerse Faé, the Nigeria Football Federation has followed the same approach.

It has been announced that Augustine Eguavoen will continue in his role as the manager of the Super Eagles and lead the team through the qualifying series of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The 58-year-old, in temporary charge of the squad he had led three times previously, steered the three-time African champions to a 3-0 defeat of Benin Republic and scoreless draw with Rwanda in Matchdays 1 and 2 earlier this month.

Eguavoen and the current technical crew that also includes Fidelis Ilechukwu, Daniel Ogunmodede, Olatunji Baruwa and Tomaz Zorec will also take charge of the Super Eagles B team for the qualifying campaign for next year’s African Nations Championship, otherwise known as CHAN.

AFCON

Super Eagles’ next opponents, Libya get new coach

Published

2 weeks ago

September 24, 2024

Kunle Solaja

Libya's new coach, Nasser Al-Hadiri

The Libya Football Federation has announced the appointment of Nasser Al-Hadiri as new head coach of the Mediterranean Knights. The new coach succeeds Serbian tactician Milutin Sredojevic, who was dismissed following the team’s poor start to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying series.

Information gathered by Sports Village Square in Libya reveals that Coach Al-Hadiri will be assisted by Abu Bakr Al-Harak, while Misbah Shangab will be the goalkeeper trainer.

The Mediterranean Knights are expected in Uyo on October 9 for the first leg of a back-to-back fixtures with Nigeria’s Super Eagles as the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations gualifying series get to Match Day 3.

The new coach was announced by the president of the Libya Footbvall federation (LFF), Abdul Hakim Al-Shalmani.

He said that the LFF had already concluded its agreement on everything with national coach Al-Hadiri to take over the training of the Libyan national team, as the new coach has great experience at the technical level and previously held the position of assistant coach with the Spaniard Javier Clemente in the Libyan national team in 2014.”

The national football team has also dropped in the world rankings for September issued by the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) to 121st place globally, 34th in Africa and 17th in the Arab world.