Amir Abdou has reiterated his deep emotional bond with Comoros while tipping Morocco as one of the strongest contenders at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025.
The Franco-Comorian tactician, now head coach of Hassania Agadir in Morocco’s Botola Pro 1, spoke candidly during an interview at his club’s training centre, sharing insights on AFCON 2025, his former national team and the state of African football.
Abdou, who led Comoros to their maiden AFCON appearance in 2021 and later guided Mauritania to the 2023 tournament, admitted that watching Comoros face Morocco was a special moment.
“It was obviously a special moment. I experienced the match with a lot of emotion and pride, but also with the perspective of a supporter,” he said. “Comoros remains a team to which I am deeply attached, even though today I am involved in a different project with Hassania Agadir.”
Assessing why the Coelacanths fell short of pulling off a surprise, Abdou pointed to a lack of sharpness in decisive moments.
“They lacked a bit more efficiency and perhaps greater technical accuracy in the final pass. At this level, the smallest detail makes the difference. Overall, the team showed real determination.”
Reflecting on Comoros’ journey since qualifying for their first AFCON, Abdou noted clear signs of growth.
“The team has continued to progress, particularly in terms of maturity and international experience. Comoros are now respected and taken seriously, even if maintaining consistency remains the biggest challenge.”
Despite the opening setback, the former Comoros coach believes the team can still make an impact at the tournament.
“Nothing is lost. In an AFCON, things can change very quickly. If the team stays true to its values of solidarity, discipline and courage, it can still play an interesting role.”
On Morocco, Abdou was full of praise, describing the Atlas Lions as genuine title contenders.
“Morocco delivered a very solid performance. They are well organised and possess a lot of individual and collective quality. They are clearly among the favourites to win this AFCON.”
Now working within Moroccan football, Abdou highlighted the strength of the domestic league and its structures.
“The Moroccan league is very competitive and constantly improving. The country benefits from high-quality infrastructure and a clear long-term vision, which explains its strong results at continental and global level.”
He also commended the organisation of AFCON 2025, describing it as comparable to major international competitions he has experienced.
Looking ahead, Abdou did not rule out a return to international coaching but stressed his current focus remains with Hassania Agadir.
“Coaching a national team is always an honour, but today I am focused on my current work.”
On the proposed shift to a four-year AFCON cycle, Abdou called it an interesting debate, urging caution to ensure it does not slow the momentum of African football.
He concluded by wishing all participating nations well, hoping the tournament continues to project African football positively on the global stage.
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