Comoros president Saïd Athouman reflects on AFCON 2025 qualification and football development

Comoros confirmed their growing status in African football by qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations for the second consecutive time. President of the Comorian Football Federation, Saïd Ali Saïd Athouman, highlighted the factors behind this achievement and outlined plans to strengthen the sport nationally.

Speaking exclusively to Africa Top Sports, Athouman attributed the qualification to decisive leadership amid challenging circumstances.

He said the success came despite efforts by some to destabilize the federation, emphasizing the collaboration between the government, FIFA, and CAF as key to achieving this milestone.

Athouman reflected on lessons learned from Comoros’ historic first participation in the 2021 AFCON.

He credited solidarity and cohesion between the federation, government, and national team for navigating difficult periods and securing meaningful results.

He cited the critical March 2021 match against Togo as a pivotal moment shaping the team’s resilience and approach to international competition.

Stability remains central to Comoros’ strategy. The current coaching staff, entrusted with rebuilding the squad after missing the 2023 AFCON, continues to receive full support.

Athouman emphasized that while results drive decision-making in elite football, no changes are planned as the team heads into the 2025 tournament.

Comoros will also compete in the preliminary round of the Arab Nations Cup against Yemen.

Athouman underlined the importance of this competition for showcasing locally based players and gaining international experience.

He highlighted previous successes, such as the bronze medal at the COSAFA Cup, as examples of the growth of domestic talent.

Local football development remains a strategic priority. The federation invests in training coaches, supporting referee development, and improving infrastructure through initiatives like the ARENA project.

Athouman noted that FIFA and CAF support has been essential in expanding coaching certifications, building mini-stadiums, and enhancing institutional capacity.

Despite financial and organizational challenges, Athouman stressed that partnerships with government, international bodies, and private stakeholders are central to sustaining progress.

He expressed confidence that Comoros’ continued investment in talent, infrastructure, and governance will consolidate the nation’s rising football profile across Africa and beyond.