AFCON 2025: Amokachi hails rising underdogs, backs local coaches’ growing influence

By Victor Okoye

Former Super Eagles international Daniel Amokachi has praised the quality, organization and competitive balance of the 1XBET Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025.

Speaking in Fès, where he is a CAF TV commentator, Amokachi reviewed the group stage, highlighting emerging teams, fading giants and the steady evolution of African football.

He described the first round as largely successful, noting that most favourites met expectations and secured places in the knockout stage.

Amokachi said only a few potential dark horses, including Angola and Gabon, failed to make a significant impact.

He expressed satisfaction with unexpected qualifiers such as Mozambique, Benin and Sudan, describing their progress as evidence of African football’s growing depth.

According to him, the group stage delivered quality football, tactical discipline and strong entertainment across venues.

DR Congo emerged as Amokachi’s standout team of the first round.

“What coach Sebastien Desabre has done with the team is incredible.

“His tenure with DR Congo marks his 11th coaching stint in Africa, where he has spent 14 years building a storied legacy in African football,” Amokachi said.

“Their build-up from the back, midfield balance and timing of forward surges showed tactical intelligence,” he added.

He praised their ball distribution and compact defensive shape.

“They stayed organised, moved the ball well and remained compact. That really stood out for me,” Amokachi said.

He also singled out Mozambique’s Mambas for praise.

Amokachi said their tactical organisation, confidence and swift transition play exceeded expectations.

He attributed their success partly to a locally based squad and a national coach who clearly transmitted his philosophy.

On disappointments, Amokachi singled out Gabon, describing their group-stage exit without a point as shocking.

He noted that star players such as Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Mario Lemina and Jim Allevinah failed to influence matches.

Amokachi stressed that Gabon’s struggles highlighted the danger of over-reliance on individual brilliance.

On Nigeria’s performance, Amokachi said the Super Eagles showed maturity, balance and a growing sense of identity.

“Nigeria played with authority, especially in controlling games and managing pressure. That shows experience and tactical clarity,” he said.

He praised the team’s attacking efficiency and defensive organisation.

“The Super Eagles were patient, disciplined and clinical when it mattered. That combination is vital at AFCON,” Amokachi added.

He said Nigeria’s collective approach stood out more than individual brilliance.

“What impressed me most was teamwork. The players worked for each other, and that made them solid and dangerous,” he said.

Looking ahead, Amokachi expressed confidence in Nigeria’s knockout prospects.

“If they maintain focus and intensity, Nigeria have everything needed to go deep in this tournament,” he said.

Previewing the Round of 16, Amokachi expects the favourites to sustain their momentum.

He tipped Morocco, Egypt, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire and Nigeria to advance, while acknowledging the possibility of surprises.

He added that the South Africa versus Cameroon fixture, promises to be tactically intriguing.

Amokachi noted that South Africa coach Hugo Broos understands Cameroon well, having led them to AFCON glory in 2017.

On a personal note, the Ex-international described his CAF TV commentary role in Fes as fulfilling and exciting.

He praised the city’s atmosphere, high-quality pitches and the emotional unpredictability that defines AFCON football.

Amokachi commended the overall organisation of Morocco 2025, calling it one of the best AFCON tournaments he has attended.

He highlighted the use of nine world-class stadiums, improved infrastructure and favourable weather conditions.

Reflecting on African football’s growth, Amokachi said the continent is steadily closing the gap with Europe’s top leagues.

He applauded CAF’s increasing trust in indigenous coaches, citing the successes of Aliou Cissé and Djamel Belmadi.

Amokachi said empowering local coaches remains crucial to sustained development.

According to him, African coaches best understand local players and how to maximise their strengths.

He expressed hope that future AFCON tournaments will feature exclusively local coaches, describing it as vital for Africa’s football evolution.