Senegal’s triumph in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations has sparked renewed optimism among Libyan football fans, raising expectations for their national team ahead of future continental competitions.
Under the guidance of coach Pape Thiaw, Senegal claimed their second AFCON title, following their victory over Morocco. The Teranga Lions’ success has become a benchmark for Libyan supporters, who see in it a model for rebuilding their own national squad.
Learning from a winning formula
Senegal’s recent continental dominance has been achieved entirely under the leadership of national coaches.
Aliou Cissé, who led the team to victory in 2021 and now heads Libya’s national team, and Pape Thiaw in 2025, have collectively guided the team to two titles in the last four editions of the tournament.
Senegal also reached the 2019 final, narrowly losing to Algeria, demonstrating consistency at the highest level. These achievements, coupled with the performances of stars like Sadio Mané, have provided Libyan fans with tangible proof that strong coaching and disciplined squads can deliver historic success.
Libya looks to Cissé for revival
Libyan supporters are pinning their hopes on Aliou Cissé’s experience to restore their team’s presence on the African stage. Libya has failed to qualify for the last six AFCON editions since 2012, leaving fans eager for a return to the continental spotlight.
Since taking charge in March, Cissé has emphasized building a competitive and resilient squad, stating: “We aim to build a strong, competitive team that restores the prestige of Libyan football at the continental level, and to achieve the fans’ dream of qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.”
Local talent forms the team’s backbone
Libya’s current squad includes just five professional players: defender Ali Youssef (Nantes, France), US Monastir duo striker Fahd Al-Mesmari and midfielder Osama Al-Sharimi, Étoile du Sahel midfielder Nour Eddine Al-Kaleb, and Iraqi winger Mohamed Soula.
The majority of the team is composed of locally-based players, who will carry the hopes of Libyan fans under Cissé’s leadership. With guidance from a coach who has proven continental success, Libya aims to end years of frustration and secure qualification for the 2027 AFCON, reigniting passion for the game across the country.
