By 
The 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) has evolved into a thrilling showcase not just for the players but for the architects guiding them from the touchline. Eight coaches, each with their unique paths, have led their teams to the quarterfinals, bringing their distinctive stories, styles, and ambitions to East Africa’s football celebration.
Hemed “Morocco” Suleiman – Tanzania
Hailing from Zanzibar, Hemed “Morocco” Suleiman has carved out a reputation in East African football through tenures at Mafunzo, Singida United, Mbao, KMKM, and as the manager of the Zanzibar national team since 2014. Appointed interim coach of Tanzania’s senior team in 2024, he stabilized the Taifa Stars with his calm leadership and experience. Under his guidance in CHAN 2024, Tanzania emerged as the unbeaten leaders of Group B, thanks to Suleiman’s blend of tactical discipline and the fervent support from home—his steady hand was crucial in steering the hosts into the knockout rounds.
Benni McCarthy – Kenya
Once a lethal striker for South Africa and a UEFA Champions League winner with Porto, Benni McCarthy brings star power and continental pedigree to his debut as Kenya’s head coach. Having previously worked with Cape Town City, AmaZulu FC, and as a forwards coach at Manchester United, McCarthy has instilled a philosophy rooted in attacking flair. In their inaugural CHAN appearance, Kenya have shocked the competition by toppling Morocco and narrowly edging past DR Congo to finish at the top of Group A—an extraordinary feat that highlights McCarthy’s immediate impact.
Morley Byekwaso & Fred Muhumuza – Uganda
This dynamic coaching duo merges local roots with developmental expertise. Morley Byekwaso, a former midfielder for the Cranes, played for SC Villa and KCCA FC before transitioning into coaching at those same clubs and leading Uganda’s U-20s to the AFCON final in 2021. His partner, Fred Muhumuza, is renowned for his meticulous tactical work within Uganda’s domestic circuit. Together, they guided Uganda through Group C, salvaging draws against powerhouse teams, defeating Guinea, and finishing among the top qualifiers—all while instilling renewed belief in the Cranes as they advanced to the CHAN quarterfinals for the first time.
Souleymane Diallo – Senegal
The current CHAN-winning coach, Souleymane Diallo, hails from Senegal’s esteemed youth coaching system and has garnered respect for his ability to develop players and craft a solid team structure on both ends of the pitch. Known for his compact defense and lethal transition play, Diallo’s team navigated Group D with impressive tactical precision, showcasing resilience and efficiency en route to the quarterfinals.
Romuald “Rôro” Rakotondrabe – Madagascar
Once a Malagasy international, Romuald Rakotondrabe symbolizes the underdog spirit. Through his academy (ASR) and past recognition as CHAN 2022’s Group-Stage Coach of the Tournament, he has inspired Madagascar’s ascent on the continental stage. In 2024, his team has defied the odds with gritty victories to secure a surprise quarterfinal berth from Group B—this marks another chapter in his remarkable football narrative.
Kwesi Appiah – Sudan
The esteemed Ghanaian coach and former Black Stars manager, Kwesi Appiah, brings invaluable World Cup and AFCON experience to Sudan. Leading a team amid civil strife and without a domestic league, he has cultivated resilience, unity, and hope within the Sudanese squad. Under his stewardship, Sudan overcame significant challenges to progress from a cleverly executed group-stage campaign—this achievement stands as a testament to Appiah’s exemplary leadership.
Madjid Bougherra – Algeria
From his days as a Rangers stalwart to national team captain, Madjid Bougherra now leads Algeria’s CHAN side with passion and purpose. After guiding the A’ team to the 2022 final, he returns with renewed ambition, believing that Algeria can go one better in 2024. His team’s composed group-stage performance—marked by authority and poise—has propelled them into the quarterfinals.
Tarik Sektioui – Morocco
A Portuguese league champion and former Porto winger, Tarik Sektioui has made an impressive transition into coaching, achieving local success at clubs like Maghreb de Fès and RS Berkane, winning domestic cups and African silverware, and even leading Morocco’s Olympic squad to a historic bronze medal in 2024. Renowned for his bold attacking style, Sektioui’s Atlas Lions faced stiff competition in the group stage but emerged resilient to reach the quarterfinals, continuing their quest for the 2024 CHAN crown.
