AFCON 2023: Why South Africa’s Hugo Broos Is Ahead of Peseiro and Other Remaining Coaches in Semis

• Only four managers remain as the 2023 AFCON reaches the penultimate stage
• Among them, Hugo Broos of South Africa sits tall as he aims for a second title
• Sports Brief evaluates the prospects of the remaining coaches securing the ultimate

After witnessing an impressive tally of 103 goals across 48 matches, surpassing the previous two AFCON competitions, anticipation is high for a captivating semifinal stage that will bring the curtain down on what many deem the 'best' AFCON in history.

The 34th edition has earned acclaim for delivering unexpected outcomes, with underdogs defying expectations and outperforming their more renowned adversaries.

This surge of underdog success is largely attributed to the tactical prowess of the managers steering these 'smaller' football nations.

With only four games remaining until the tournament concludes, these strategic minds will once again engage in a battle of wits.

Ghanaian football expert slams Black Stars players after disgraceful AFCON match against Mozambique: Video

Football

Currently, only four coaches remain from the initial 24 who qualified for the continental championship in Ivory Coast.

Sports Brief meticulously evaluates the prospects of these managers in their quest to secure the coveted AFCON crown.

4. Sebastien Desabre

A widely recognised name on the continent, Sebastien Desabre has predominantly plied his coaching trade in Africa.

Similar to two of the remaining four coaches in the AFCON semi-finals, the Frenchman is set to make his first appearance at this stage, having guided DR Congo to only their third semi-final since the country's renaming in 1997.

Desabre's journey to the semis faced challenges, with his team unable to secure a win in the group stage, according to the BBC.

The Leopards had to rely on penalties to eliminate Egypt after a 1-1 draw, followed by a more convincing 3-1 victory over Guinea in the quarterfinals.

Nigeria’s Super Eagles get AFCON boost as injured star returns ahead of Cameroon clash

Football

However, DR Congo has a less-than-ideal record at this stage in recent memory, having lost their last two games. To progress to the final, Desabre and his team must overcome historical setbacks and surpass the formidable Ivory Coast in the upcoming match before thinking of annexing the ultimate.

AFCON title chances: 4/10

3. Emerse Fae

Ivory Coast's advancement in the competition is not merely attributable to luck or resilience but to the impeccable tactical approach of Emerse Fae.

The French-born former Ivorian player assumed the role of Les Elephants' boss from Jean-Louis Gasset after a disastrous group stage campaign that almost led to an early exit, per Sportstar.

Since taking charge from the round of 16, the 40-year-old has overseen two remarkable comeback victories, first against defending champions Senegal and later against Mali in the quarterfinals.

Despite Emerse's limited experience at this level, underestimating his capabilities would be unwise, as he seems to have revitalised a team lacking confidence and creativity into a formidable unit capable of overcoming any opponent.

Holders Senegal remain team to beat after spectacular AFCON group stage

Football

AFCON title chances: 6/10

2. Jose Peseiro

The Portuguese coach has undergone a transformation from a questionable figure to a revered figure in Nigeria, guiding the Super Eagles to the AFCON semi-finals.

Despite a slow start with an uneventful draw against Equatorial Guinea, the three-time African champions have embarked on an impressive run, emphasising defensive solidity.

The Super Eagles are now considered favourites to claim the championship.

While Peseiro's defensive-oriented strategy might not have initially resonated with the Nigerian fans, its effectiveness has become evident, and there are no indications of a shift, especially in the crucial stage of the competition, where they are just two games away from winning the ultimate.

AFCON title chances: 7/10

1. Hugo Broos

Leading the coaching ranks is South Africa's Hugo Broos.

The Belgian tactician stands out as the sole manager among the remaining four with the experience of winning the AFCON, which he achieved when he guided Cameroon to victory against Egypt in the 2017 final.

AFCON 2023 best players, Nsue, Kudus and the fabulous five

Football

Broos brings a wealth of experience, not just in terms of age but also in his successful track record at this level.

Having steered Bafana Bafana to the semi-finals of the AFCON for the first time since 2000, his coaching record boasts five wins, five draws, and a single loss in 11 games over two editions, per ESPN.

While his team may not showcase the most exhilarating style of football, similar to Nigeria, they are well-drilled, defensively resilient, and pose a threat to any opponent.

The 71-year-old wouldn't shy away from a penalty shootout scenario against Nigeria, having confidence in the abilities of the Mamelodi Sundowns shot-stopper Ronwen Williams.

AFCON title chances: 7.5/10