Four African Coaches in AFCON Semi-Finals for First Time Since 1965

11 January 2026at19:50

The current edition of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has witnessed a historic event concerning African coaches, as four coaches from the continent have successfully led their national teams to the semi-finals.

This achievement is rare, having only occurred once before in the tournament's history, specifically in the 1965 edition.

Eric Chelle with the Nigerian national team, Hossam Hassan with the Egyptian national team, Walid Regragui with the Moroccan national team, and Pape Thiaw with the Senegalese national team have all qualified for the tournament's semi-finals.

This accomplishment reflects the significant development of African coaches and their ability to compete at the highest levels. It also proves that African football no longer relies solely on the individual skills of players but also on the technical and strategic planning of coaches, who now have a clear impact on the results of major national teams.

Q&A

Which African coaches have reached the AFCON 2025 semi-finals?

Eric Chelle (Nigeria), Hossam Hassan (Egypt), Walid Regragui (Morocco), and Pape Thiaw (Senegal) are the four African coaches in the AFCON 2025 semi-finals. This historic feat hasn't occurred since the 1965 tournament.

What does the success of African coaches in AFCON 2025 imply for the continent's football?

The success implies significant development for African coaches and their strategic planning. It shows African football now relies on technical expertise, not just individual player skills, impacting major national teams.

Morocco

Senegal

Egypt

CAF Africa Cup of Nations

Nigeria