Senegal’s head coach Aliou Cisse believes African football can only be developed and taken to the next level by African coaches. Cisse, who is the only black coach in the ongoing World tournament in Russia believes past professional players have the ability to be among top tacticians. Cisse was part of Senegalese contingent that reached the quarterfinals in 2002.
“I represent a new generation that would like to have its place among African football and world football. We’re good players with pasts as professional football players and are very good tactically. We have the right to be among the top international coaches. I am certain that one day an African team, an African country, will win the World Cup,” Cisse said.
Africa’s quality. Although he understands the challenges African nations undergo, the availability of talents in the continent does not escape the coach’s eyes. “It’s a bit more complicated in our countries. We face realities that are not there in other continents. But Africa is full of quality and we’re on the way. We fully trust our football, we have no complexes. You see lots of African players in European clubs, now we need African coaches for our continent to go ahead.” Cisse said.
The coach believes football, as a global game has the power to unite. “I’m the only black coach at this World Cup, it’s true. But really this debate disturbs me. I think football is a universal sport and the color of your skin is of very little importance.” he concluded. Senegal surprisingly defeated Poland 2-1 in their opener to boost their hopes of a further progress in Russia.