African Coaches Sweep All 4 Afcon Semifinal Spots

When Morocco and Senegal face off this Sunday for the Africa Cup of Nations title, they'll make history no matter who wins. Both teams are coached by Africans, capping a tournament where local talent finally took center stage.

All four semifinalists at the 2025 Afcon were led by African coaches, a rare achievement that signals a major turning point for the continent's soccer future. Morocco's Walid Regragui and Senegal's Pape Thiaw eliminated Nigeria's Eric Chelle and Egypt's Hossam Hassan to reach the final showdown.

The numbers tell an inspiring story. Fourteen of the 24 teams at this year's tournament were coached by Africans, compared to just 10 led by foreigners. That's a dramatic shift from past decades when European coaches dominated African national teams.

"There have often been situations where African coaches have not been able to get jobs because federations and clubs prefer Europeans," said South Sudan coach Kwesi Appiah. "But that seems to be changing a bit."

More than changing a bit, it's creating a winning streak. The last four Afcon champions were all guided by African coaches from their own countries. Ivory Coast's Emerse Faé in 2023, Senegal's Aliou Cissé in 2021, and Algeria's Djemal Belmadi in 2019 all proved that local knowledge and cultural connection matter.

Morocco hopes to capture their first Afcon title in 50 years after squeezing past Nigeria 4-2 on penalties following a goalless match. Senegal, chasing their second title after winning in 2021, advanced when former Liverpool star Sadio Mané scored a stunning goal against Egypt.

The Ripple Effect

This coaching revolution extends beyond just winning trophies. Young African coaches now see clear pathways to the highest levels of their profession. Federations are investing in local coaching education programs, and players benefit from coaches who deeply understand their culture and context.

Egypt's Hassan, who won three Afcon titles as a player, captured the moment's significance. "With all due respect and appreciation for foreign coaches, I am one of those who favor local coaches," he told journalists after his semifinal loss.

The trophy presentation on Sunday will crown more than just continental champions. It will celebrate a movement that proves African soccer expertise can compete with anyone in the world, when given the chance.