Former Nigerian international and football aficionado, Daniel Amokachi, has praised the impressive growth in the tactical and mental maturity of African youth football. As a distinguished member of the CAF Technical Study Group at the ongoing 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations, Amokachi has been closely observing the evolving landscape of football across the continent.
“People often say that African football is progressing, but I always tell them it has already arrived,” he asserted in a recent interview with CAFonline. “If it hadn’t, we wouldn’t have so many top African players showcasing their talents in clubs around the world, from Europe to Asia and beyond.”
The former Everton striker, who has transitioned seamlessly into coaching after hanging up his boots, highlighted an essential shift in the approach of coaches as one of the most promising indicators of this evolution. “In the past, young African coaches used to bark instructions on the sidelines incessantly.
I’ve experienced it myself — shouting from the touchline, trying to energise the team,” he recalled, with a hint of nostalgia in his voice.
“However, what I’ve noticed now is a remarkable sense of composure among coaches. Even when their teams find themselves in challenging situations, trailing in a match, they retain their calm. They communicate with clarity, purpose, and confidence. This is undoubtedly a significant step forward for our football.”
Amokachi emphasised that this shift not only reflects the growing tactical understanding of the game but also showcases the maturation of coaches who are now better equipped to handle the pressures of youth football. “Great coaches demonstrate an ability to adapt and think strategically,” he remarked. “They understand that football is as much about mental fortitude as it is about physical ability.”
The former striker’s insights come at a pivotal time when youth football development in Africa is being recognised globally, with countless initiatives underway to bolster the talent pipeline. Amokachi’s observations underline the importance of fostering a new generation of players who are not only technically proficient but also possess the mental resilience to succeed in competitive environments.
As African youth football continues to develop and gain recognition, the experiences and insights from seasoned players like Amokachi will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of the sport on the continent. Football enthusiasts and upcoming coaches alike will be eager to witness how this evolution unfolds in the years to come.
