From a losing finalist in 2002 to a victorious strategist at the 2021 edition of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Aliou Cissé’s story with Africa’s most prestigious competition is a true tale of perseverance and success.
In an interview with CAF Online, the former Senegal captain and coach shares his unreserved view of this key event and analyses the ambitions of the Lions of Teranga for the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON 2025 in Morocco.
This is what he had to say:
You have been designated to attend the draw for the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON 2025. How do you feel about this responsibility?
It’s an experience that I’ve already had in other contexts, but which always requires special preparation. It’s not our daily life as coaches or players. We are more comfortable on the pitch, but with clear instructions and rehearsals, it becomes natural. Like the players before a match, we rehearse our gestures to understand the steps we must take.
Why is the draw so crucial for the competition?
It’s a first for me to attend a draw, because I’ve never been there before, neither for the AFCON nor for the World Cup. However, this exercise symbolizes the beginning of an adventure for each team, with major strategic stakes.
Senegal is now one of the powers of African football. What is your analysis of them?
Senegal needs no introduction. We are among the best teams on the continent, with a place in the top 20 in the world according to the FIFA ranking.
This progression reflects the experience of our players, some of whom have played in four or five AFCONs, as well as two World Cups. We also have a very ambitious group of young people.
Since our historic victory in 2022, the objective has been clear: to aim for the title every time we participate.
The TotalEnergies CAF AFCON will be held in Morocco. How do you perceive this edition?
Morocco offers modern infrastructure and a high-level organization. It will be a special TotalEnergies CAF AFCON. African football is constantly evolving, and I hope that this edition will mark a historic turning point.
You have lived through over two decades of the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON, first as a player and then a coach. How do you see its evolution?
The tournament has progressed on all levels: infrastructure, team preparation and coach training. With the increase from 16 to 24 teams, it has become even more competitive and is followed internationally. It is a celebration for all of Africa, and players are willing to leave their clubs in the middle of the season to participate.
What are the key elements to win an AFCON?
It takes a lot of work, patience and a bit of luck. The players have to be at the top of their game at the right time and have a competitive mentality until the end. Conditions can be demanding in Africa, but perseverance always pays off in the end.
Finally, any advice for young coaches?
Be ready, organized, and adaptable. African football has its particularities, and you have to know how to adjust. But it’s a unique and deeply enriching experience.
SOURCE: CAF Online.
