Raymond Tchayé has set his sights firmly on leading the Benin U20 Cheetahs beyond the group stage of the upcoming WAFU B U20 Cup, which runs from 10 to 23 July 2025 in Accra, Ghana.
The third edition of the regional tournament sees Benin drawn into Group A alongside regional heavyweights Ghana and Nigeria. In an exclusive with 229foot, the France-trained coach—whose formative years included time at Red Star—outlined his gameplan, ambitions, and belief in the young squad’s potential.
“This draw will reveal our efforts”
Reflecting on the group, Tchayé described it as “balanced but tough”, emphasising that even nations with smaller footballing traditions now offer formidable opposition in West Africa.
“There are no longer any small nations in football… We respect our opponents, but we also have confidence in our group,” he asserted, interpreting the draw as an opportunity to showcase the progress made under his stewardship.
Genuine hopes in Group A
With both Ghana and Nigeria regularly supplying talent to elite academies and clubs, Benin’s path is far from straightforward. Yet Tchayé believes strongly in his players. “Our chances are real,” he said.
“We have a young but talented squad… If we remain focused, disciplined, and united, we have every chance of making it out of this group.” His message is clear: take each match seriously and start the competition strongly.
A stepping stone to bigger stage
Qualification for the U20 AFCON remains the primary ambition. The WAFU tournament serves as the gateway, and beyond simply advancing, Tchayé wants his players to use the experience as a launchpad.
“We also want this competition to serve as a springboard for our young players: to gain experience, to improve their game and their mentality,” he explained.
He insists this is about building a generation that can compete consistently at continental level and—by extension—the global stage.
A plea to the nation
Exuding passion and national pride, Tchayé extended an emotive appeal to the entire Beninese community. “I call on the support of all the people of Benin.
Our young people need to feel that an entire country is behind them,” he said. He urged fans to show their support through messages, prayers, and—if possible—attending matches in Accra. “Together, let’s make the U20 Cheetahs shine!”
What lies ahead
As the squad prepares to depart for Ghana, the immediate challenge is familiarisation. Training sessions will focus on harnessing the mental fortitude required to take on established footballing nations.
Tchayé has placed particular emphasis on discipline and cohesion, believing that unity will be the key to navigating a compact group stage schedule where recovery and mental strength matter as much as tactical awareness.
The coach also hinted at possible tactical adaptations. Against physically imposing opponents like Nigeria, aerial strength and compact defending may prove vital, while matches against Ghana could require sharper midfield control and swift transitions. His France-influenced training methods, honed at Red Star and during his coaching education, will emphasise game intelligence and structured play.
A personal mission
For Tchayé, this is his first major coaching assignment with a national team. The opportunity brings both pressure and privilege. He acknowledges the weight of expectation, but his tone remains measured.
“This draw will reveal our efforts,” he repeated, underlining his belief that hard work in training and preparation will translate to performance on the field.
His journey embodies resilience—much like many of his players—emerging through French youth systems before returning to Africa to contribute to national football development.
His belief is clear: these tournaments aren’t just victories or defeats, but building blocks for long-term growth.
Looking ahead
As the tournament approaches, all attention turns to Accra. Can Benin’s U20 side defy early odds and progress? Will Tchayé’s methods inspire confidence and grit? The coming days will reveal whether preparation meets performance.
One thing is certain: Benin’s young Cheetahs will be motivated—and a nation will watch.
