Tahir Zakaria’s appointment as head coach of the Chad national team has sparked discontent among the squad, with several key players expressing frustration over the decision.
The change in leadership has intensified concerns over the Chadian Football Federation’s management, leaving the team in a state of uncertainty ahead of crucial World Cup qualifiers.
Controversy surrounding Kevin Nicaise’s dismissal
The departure of Kevin Nicaise has come as a shock, not only to fans but to the former coach himself.
Nicaise revealed that he learned of his dismissal through social media, calling it an unprofessional move by the Federation.
Having hoped to establish long-term stability within the team, he was instead abruptly replaced by Zakaria—a coach with a track record of success but whose leadership style has reportedly raised concerns among the squad.
For many players, the Federation’s decision reflects a lack of clear direction.
Senior members of the team have questioned the reasoning behind Nicaise’s removal and the appointment of Zakaria, fueling dissatisfaction within the squad.
Players react with discontent
Among the first to publicly express frustration was Zesco United forward Amine Hiver.
Taking to social media, he posted a pointed message: “Leave football to those who know Sao football.”
He later announced his decision to step away from international duty, citing a lack of a serious long-term vision for the national team.
No serious project to advance our Sao national team, but when the results do not follow, it is the players who are blamed.
For now, I prefer to focus on my career, Hiver stated.
His sentiments were echoed by midfielder Éric Mbangossoum of Union Touarga, who voiced his disappointment over what he saw as yet another setback for the team.
“There was a small glimmer of hope. I really believed in a long-term project, in building something. But as always… For now, it’s wiser to focus on myself,” he wrote.
A growing crisis
The latest backlash follows captain Marius Mouandilmadji’s decision to retire from international football after Chad’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
His exit now appears to be influencing other players, with several seemingly prioritizing their club careers over a national team setup they view as mismanaged.
This growing discontent threatens to further destabilize a squad already struggling for cohesion.
Zakaria’s appointment was meant to usher in a fresh start, but instead, it has deepened the crisis within Chadian football.
With crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Ghana and Comoros approaching, the Federation faces a significant challenge in restoring unity within the team.
Unless immediate steps are taken to address the players’ concerns and rebuild trust, Chad’s national team risks suffering further setbacks, potentially derailing its hopes for future international success.
