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CAF
22-05-2025
- Sport
- CAF
Mohamed "Housseï" Saloum: 'Women's football in Mali can aim for the top in Africa.'
Since 2017, Mohamed 'Housseï' Saloum has embodied stability and discipline at the helm of the Aiglonnes. The first fitness coach in the history of the Malian women's national team, he has become its chief architect. His goal: to make Mali a continental powerhouse 'Being a national coach is almost like being a minister.' When Mohamed "Housseï" Saloum says these words, it's not out of pride or provocation. It reflects the weight of responsibility on his shoulders—the duty to carry the hopes of a women's football scene that was long ignored, sometimes even scorned, but is now on the rise in Mali. Since 2017, he has led the Aiglonnes, a role he fulfils with humility, discipline, and vision. A former fitness coach—and the first to hold that position for the Malian women's team in 2015—Saloum has, in just a few years, become the main architect of the revival of women's football in the country. Through club success, the rise of local players, and the emergence of talents like Agueicha Diarra, he has built a team that fears no one on the continent. Ahead of the TotalEnergies CAF WAFCON, he spoke to about his journey, his deep convictions, and the keys to Mali's progress. What motivated you to get involved in women's football? At first, I was hesitant. Back then, many coaches stayed away from women's football, often because of social prejudices. But experienced colleagues encouraged me and So I gave it a shot. In 2015, I joined the women's national team as a fitness coach—it was a first in Mali. That role allowed me to bring in some structure, and I think it was beneficial. I later earned my coaching licenses, and in 2017, I was entrusted with leading the team. How do you view the evolution of women's football in Mali since your beginnings? The progress is clear. In 2015, the women's league was still in its infancy. Today, we have around a dozen clubs nationwide. Thanks to CAF's policy requiring major clubs like Stade Malien and Djoliba to have women's teams, many girls have found a place to develop. We've also seen young talents emerge, and I bring them into the senior team as soon as possible to give them a taste of top-level football. Mali has played in several WAFCONs under your leadership. What keeps you going after eight years? It's a fight—but a noble one. I want to show these young women that through hard work, you can go far. In 2018, we reached the semifinals of the WAFCON—a first in Mali's history. That generation continues to inspire the next. Today, about 75% of our former players play abroad, in Europe, Asia, or North Africa. My goal is clear: to place Mali among Africa's top three nations and eventually reach the World Cup. In this WAFCON, you're in a tough group with South Africa, Ghana, and Tanzania. How are you approaching this challenge? People are already calling it the 'group of death.' But Mali thrives on challenges. South Africa is the reigning champion, Ghana is a historic powerhouse, and Tanzania is improving quickly. In 2018, we were the ones who eliminated Ghana. We want to prove ourselves again. Our players are on the rise, and this AFCON will be an opportunity to show where we stand. How is the dynamic between international and local players? Very good. In fact, many were first trained locally. Agueicha Diarra, for example, played for Super Lionnes of Hamdallaye before shining at the 2018 WAFCON. That's when she got noticed. The same goes for Aïssata Traoré, now a professional abroad. When they return to the national team, these players bring experience and strengthen team cohesion. They show the local players what professionalism requires. It's a valuable relay. Speaking of which, can you tell us about Agueicha Diarra's journey? I could write a book about her! I spotted her very early. I offered her individual training sessions before team practice to work on her discipline. She got the message—and so did her parents. That was the turning point in her career. Today, she plays for PSG, and she often tells me: 'Coach, what you told me back then—I'm living it now.' That makes me proud. How do you keep track of your players outside of training camps? We've set up a rigorous system. Locally, my staff and I attend league matches every week. We also stay in regular contact with club coaches. For players abroad, new technology helps us a lot. Clubs send us match footage so we can follow their performances. This allows us to offer personalized monitoring, identify areas for improvement, and plan future call-ups. And personally, what does this role as head coach bring you? It's a huge responsibility. When you carry the ambitions of a national team, you're not far from being a minister! I understand the honour of representing Mali. I try to be worthy of it, with humility. Women's football deserves more recognition, more resources, and I believe that together, we will get there.
CAF
14-05-2025
- Sport
- CAF
Farid Benstiti: 'What I do for Algeria is also a tribute to my father'
• For Farid Benstiti, coaching Algeria is about honouring his roots • The tactician is focused on building a united and competitive squad, blending local talent with dual nationals • He emphasises mental discipline and team cohesion to guide the long-term development of the team Farid Benstiti is preparing to lead Algeria into his very first TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations. Algeria is not just another national team to him, it is part of his identity. A land of memory, heritage, and family ties. Becoming head coach of the national team was not just a professional decision; it was a natural return to his roots. 'I've always said that one day I needed to give something back to Algeria, as a tribute to my father, my parents, and my family,' he reflects. Behind the impressive resume lies a man deeply connected to his heritage shaped by what's been passed down silently, generation after generation. 'This flag on my chest represents my entire family. Algeria is written into my DNA, and into that of my children.' By taking this role, Benstiti didn't just accept a coaching job. He committed himself fully to a project built on discipline, trust, and respect. He's determined to help this team grow, grounded in values like humility, hard work, and openness. In this interview with the Algeria coach opens up about the deeper reasons behind his commitment, his vision for the team, and the powerful bond he shares with Algeria a bond woven from memory, identity, and the challenges that lie ahead on the continental stage. Coach, you've had a remarkable career. What still drives you after all these years on the sidelines? Farid Benstiti: Quite simply, it's my passion for football. Whether it's the men's or women's game, football has always been a part of me. Football made me who I am today. Someone once asked me, 'Why are you still doing this? Don't you want to try something new?' And I replied, 'How can I do something else when I've become almost an expert in this field since my playing days?' Even if I had other options, this is what I know best. You've coached at clubs like Olympique Lyonnais, Paris Saint-Germain, and Reign FC in the United States. Why choose Algeria now? When I left the U.S. I wanted to complete my UEFA Pro Licence. I'd worked non-stop for years and never had time to go back and update my qualifications. When I returned to France, Bordeaux reached out. But because I'd spent so long abroad, I had to have my diplomas reassessed, and it didn't work out. Patrice Lair ended up taking that role. I had great ideas for Bordeaux, it matched my mentality. I've always been selective about the projects I take on. I spent over a year finishing my UEFA Pro. I received a few offers, but didn't want to go too far from France or my family. Then Algeria called. There was a real development plan for the national team a clear desire to professionalise things. What convinced me was also personal. I'd always told myself that one day, I'd repay Algeria for what my parents gave. My father worked hard for this country. This is my way of honouring that. That Algerian flag on your chest — what does it represent to you? It means everything. Algeria is the story of my whole family: great-grandparents, grandparents, parents, cousins… It's historical, cultural, traditional, spiritual. It's in my blood and my children's too. As dual nationals, we know what our parents gave up crossing the Mediterranean. And we know that our heritage starts with the soil of Algeria. You've grown up between two cultures. Has that influenced the way you manage multicultural squads? I've never imposed anything. I've never arrived anywhere like a conqueror. I always come in with humility, aiming to understand first. Whether I was in China, Russia or the U.S., I always made the effort to understand the people, the culture, the way of life. I never wanted to show up as a bossy outsider. There's a level of respect you owe the people who welcome you, who pay you, who trust you with their teams. The key question is: how do you create unity between local players, dual nationals, and staff? You do it by never treating one group as more important than another. Is your mission in Algeria about preparing for the upcoming WAFCON — or building something long-term? We've long underestimated our potential. The hardest part was convincing top-level players like Ghoutia Karchouni, Marine Dafeur, Chloé N'Gazi, Inès Belloumou, and Lina wasn't enough to say, 'Come, it's an honour.' Of course, it is an honour. But for this generation, that's not enough. They need a real project. I couldn't just sell them a dream. I had to show them what kind of team we want to build, the objectives, the vision. And I believe they don't regret joining us. We're not heading to WAFCON as favourites. I told a journalist that we're 'outsiders with a plus.' You are in Group B with Nigeria, Tunisia, and Botswana. Your thoughts? Nigeria are the benchmark. I had the pleasure of working with Asisat Oshoala in China she's a friend now. Nigeria aren't just Africa's best; they're among the top 10 in the world. Botswana impressed me at the 2022 WAFCON. They're solid, well organised. If we're not disciplined, we'll struggle. African coaches are improving every year. Tunisia are similar - disciplined, technical. In this group, I believe the most mentally resilient team will make the quarterfinals. Have you implemented any specific mental preparation with your team? People often ask about mental coaches. For me, the best mental coach is the head coach with his staff. Mental preparation doesn't happen in the moment. I've been mentally preparing these players for two and a half years through tactical discipline, technical work, and a constant drive to improve. Every session, every conversation, every minute is a chance to build mental strength so that our players feel focused, fulfilled, and ready. Is the pressure different in international football compared to club management? When there's a big objective a WAFCON, a final, a Champions League the pressure is always the same. But in club football, you've got time. Over a full season, you can correct early mistakes. With national teams, it's all or nothing. Qualification is often harder than the tournament itself. One mistake, and it's over. Most importantly, I want us to savour this moment. We might not remember the exact scorelines years from now, but we'll never forget what we shared. Finally, what message would you give to a young African girl dreaming of becoming a footballer? I would say: dreams are valid, and you must hold on tight to them. Be the best you can be because sometimes, that's the only way to stand out. And I'd say it's essential that we support all young African girls who have stars in their eyes. We must create the conditions for them to express their passion. Above all, let's take care of our daughters. Let's support them at every step of their journey. Football may just be one part of their life but it's a precious part.
CAF
20-04-2025
- Sport
- CAF
Ghana U20 coach Desmond Ofei eyes continental glory ahead of showdown in Egypt
As the countdown continues for next week's start of the TotalEnergies CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt 2025, all eyes are turning to Ghana — one of the most storied nations in youth football on the continent. With a pedigree that includes four U-20 AFCON titles and a historic FIFA U-20 World Cup triumph in 2009, the Black Satellites arrive at the tournament with both legacy and expectation riding on their shoulders. Drawn into a tough Group C alongside defending champions Senegal, DR Congo, and the Central African Republic, Ghana faces a stern test from the outset. However, under the guidance of head coach Desmond Ofei, the team is brimming with belief, built on a blend of homegrown talent and overseas-based prospects. Ofei, a tactician with a clear footballing identity and attention to detail, has meticulously prepared his squad through a robust selection process, including a local training camp and participation in a competitive invitational tournament in Morocco. His mission is simple: restore Ghana to its rightful place at the summit of African youth football. The stakes are high. Not only is continental supremacy on the line, but the top four finishers will secure their ticket to the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile — a stage where Ghana has previously etched its name in history as the only African team to lift the trophy. With Ghana scheduled to open their campaign against DR Congo on 2 May in Suez, fans will be eager to witness how this new generation carries the weight of the jersey. In this exclusive interview with Coach Ofei discusses his team's preparation, expectations, and the ambitious roadmap for Ghana's U-20 campaign. Below is the Q&A with Ghana U-20 head coach Desmond Ofei Coach, Ghana has been drawn into a group featuring the defending champions Senegal, DR Congo and Central African Republic. What is your overall assessment of the group? Desmond Ofei: It's certainly a challenging group. At this stage, every team brings quality, and we respect each of our opponents. But we're also confident in our own identity and strengths. It's about preparation and showing up with our best when it matters. What can you tell us about your group opponents? Desmond Ofei: We've done extensive scouting. Senegal are the reigning champions for a reason — very well-organized and consistent. DR Congo and Central African Republic also bring different tactical profiles. We've studied each team closely and will prepare uniquely for every match. Can you walk us through Ghana's preparation for this tournament? Desmond Ofei: We started with a local talent identification programme that ran for about five weeks. We looked at a wide pool of players from domestic competitions. Then we went to Morocco for a three-nation tournament which gave us a clearer picture of our core squad. The next phase is all about tactical fine-tuning and strengthening team chemistry. Ghana has a proud history in this competition. What should fans and the continent expect from your team? Desmond Ofei: Expect a team that plays with courage, purpose, and intelligence. We want to control games, with and without the ball. Our identity is built on dynamic, expressive football backed by strong tactical discipline. Ghana has produced many stars through this tournament. Are there any standout talents we should watch? Desmond Ofei: We have talent across all positions — defenders, midfielders, attackers. I'd prefer not to single out individuals now, but I believe several of our players will emerge as names to remember by the end of this competition. Your clash with Senegal has been tipped as one of the key group games. How are you approaching that? Desmond Ofei: It's a big match, no doubt. But we'll treat it like any other: with respect, focus, and confidence. We'll execute our tactical plan, stay disciplined, and be fearless in key moments. From a coaching perspective, what's your view of the overall level of the U-20 AFCON? Desmond Ofei: The competition keeps evolving. Teams are more organized, players are better prepared, and the talent is impressive. It's a fantastic platform for young footballers, and for coaches like myself, it's a space to innovate and test ideas. Finally, what is Ghana's main target heading into this year's tournament? Desmond Ofei: Our immediate goal is to get out of the group stage. From there, we take it one step at a time. Of course, the long-term aim is to win the tournament and qualify for the U-20 World Cup, but we'll do that by staying consistent and focused on the process.
CAF
18-04-2025
- Sport
- CAF
Henrique Lopes Fernandes do Rosário: "Angola's Women's Futsal is on the move"
As head coach of Angola's national women's futsal team, Henrique Lopes Fernandes do Rosário, also known as Rosário Nandinho, is preparing for a historic milestone. For the first time ever, Angola will participate in the CAF Women's Futsal Africa Cup of Nations, taking place in Morocco from 22 to 30 April. The coach approaches this landmark moment with a blend of ambition and realism. Drawn into Group B alongside Guinea and Egypt, Angola faces a tough challenge. But Rosário believes in his players, their steady progress, and the collective momentum this continental tournament could ignite. Here, he shares his insights, hopes, and the values he aims to pass on to the next generation. Angola is in Group B with Guinea and Egypt. What are your first impressions? Henrique Lopes Fernandes do Rosário: In my view, it's the most competitive group in the tournament. We're up against two nations with solid experience in indoor sports. But we're not afraid — it makes the challenge even more exciting. We know every match will be a battle, and that drives us to raise our standards. This type of test will only help us grow. How did your team prepare for this Women's Futsal AFCON? It's a completely new journey, and for this first edition, every person's contribution has been essential. Preparation has been intense, structured, and enriching. Of course, we've faced many challenges, but we tackled each one with a positive mindset. Working with a group discovering this level of competition demands patience and flexibility, but our determination is strong. What objectives have you set for your team? We're moving forward with both humility and ambition. Our approach is step-by-step. It's not about rushing, but about building solid momentum one match at a time. We want to enter the tournament focused, lay the foundation from the first whistle, and keep growing throughout. What aspects of the game have you emphasised in training? Our approach is comprehensive: technical, tactical, mental, and physical. We've worked on transitions, high pressing, set plays… but most of all, on our ability to adapt to very different styles of play. Futsal demands versatility and game intelligence — qualities we're working hard to develop. How did you select your squad for this tournament? It was a rigorous process. We had to identify not just the technically skilled players, but also those who embody strong values: teamwork, commitment, and the pride of representing Angola. Wearing this shirt carries enormous responsibility. That had to be reflected both in attitude and performance. What is the team's mindset ahead of the tournament? The energy is electric. There's a genuine enthusiasm and a strong desire to do well and prove that Angola belongs on this stage. The spirit is positive and united. The players know they're writing an important chapter in the history of Angolan women's sport. In one word, how would you describe this team? Warriors. That's what being an Angolan woman means to me — fight, courage, and dignity. That's the spirit we bring to the pitch. How do you assess the development of women's futsal in Angola? We're growing. Women's futsal is gaining visibility, credibility, and momentum. We're on the move. There's still much to build, but the foundation is in place. This AFCON is a crucial platform to speed up progress and inspire more young girls to join the sport. Angola has a strong tradition in indoor sports, like handball and basketball. Can that benefit women's futsal? Absolutely. We have a culture of discipline, effort, and indoor competition. Now it's about channelling that energy into futsal, building bridges between disciplines. This Africa Cup of Nations can be a catalyst — and in many ways, it already is. The movement has begun. This Women's Futsal AFCON also serves as a qualifier for the World Cup. Does that affect your strategy? Of course, it's added motivation. But our strategy remains grounded: to build step by step. Everyone dreams of a World Cup spot — and dreaming costs nothing. But here, every day and every minute count. We want to stay grounded and focused on the work ahead. What does it mean to you, personally, to lead this team into a continental competition? It's a huge honour. Leading this team is a privilege, and I thank the Angolan Football Federation for their trust. My ambition goes beyond this tournament — I want to keep learning, keep developing, and reach the highest levels internationally. This tournament is both a milestone and a springboard. What message would you like to share with the Angolan public, especially young girls? We're counting on the support of the entire nation. What we're doing here is for Angola. To young girls, I say: come join us. Come and discover this amazing sport, futsal. It's waiting for you. It will give you values, a family, a pathway. And we'll be here to guide you.
CAF
14-04-2025
- Sport
- CAF
Abdul Karim Kombassa (Guinea): Police, Futsal, and National Passion
He speaks with the rigour of a man in the field and the contagious enthusiasm of a builder. A police officer by day and head coach of Guinea's national women's futsal team in every spare moment, Abdul Karim Kombassa embodies a new generation of dedicated coaches who live at the crossroads of duty and passion. As Guinea prepares to make history by competing in the first-ever CAF Women's Futsal Africa Cup of Nations, Kombassa speaks candidly. Between national pride, a thirst for continental recognition, and the hopes carried by a determined youth, he outlines the contours of an ambitious sporting project and a growing movement. A conversation with a coach who goes against the grain someone for whom every minute on the court is a victory. How does it feel to be part of the very first CAF Women's Futsal Africa Cup of Nations? Abdul Karim Kombassa: I feel immense pride, mixed with great responsibility. Qualifying for this first edition of the Women's Futsal AFCON is a real achievement for Guinean football. It's the result of commitment, determination, and the vision of the president of the Guinean Football Federation. We're approaching this historic moment with seriousness, excitement, and the ambition to represent our country with honour. Guinea is in Group B alongside Angola and Egypt. What are your thoughts on the draw? Group B is a tough one. Angola and Egypt both have solid experience in women's football, which makes our task even more challenging. But it's exactly this kind of challenge that pushes us to give our best. We know we'll need to double our efforts, but we're ready to face these nations and showcase the potential of Guinean women's futsal. What are your goals for the tournament? Our ambition is first to perform well, get out of the group stage, and reach the semi-finals. This tournament is also an opportunity to gain experience and continue improving our game. Most importantly, we hope our participation will inspire other young girls in Guinea to take an interest in futsal and believe in their potential. How would you describe your team? It's a young, disciplined, and motivated group. My players are talented, enthusiastic, and very united. They work hard and bring great team spirit. Cohesion is one of our main strengths, and I'm confident each of them will contribute meaningfully to the team's success. How is the team's preparation for the tournament going? The preparation is going well. We've implemented an intensive training programme focused on technique, tactics, and physical fitness. We've also played several friendly matches against local clubs to test our play in real conditions. We're paying special attention to mental preparation, stress management, and strengthening team unity. You're also a police officer. How do you balance your professional duties with your commitment as a coach? It's not easy, but I've learned to manage my schedule with discipline. I carefully plan my days to fulfil my professional obligations while being fully committed to working with the team. The discipline and organisation required in my role as a police officer help me a lot in my work as a coach. How did you discover futsal? I come from traditional football, but I discovered futsal during a stay in Egypt. I was captivated by the pace of the game, the technical depth, and the creativity it demands. Over time, this discipline became a passion. When the opportunity to coach arose, I naturally accepted the challenge. Beyond sporting results, what are your hopes for the future of women's futsal in Africa? I hope to see women's futsal become more structured across the continent. Young girls need access to proper facilities, regular competitions, and qualified coaching. Women's futsal has immense potential. I hope more African countries will invest in this sport to turn it into a leading discipline not only in Africa but on the global stage.
