AFCON 2025: Team Guide for the Comoros Island
The Coelacantes has evolved from a continental outlier into a fearless team on the continent. As they prepare for the 2025 tournament in Morocco, the Comoros island carries the burning desire to prove that their previous heroics were no fluke.
A Legacy of Bravery and the “Miracle of 2021”
The history of Comoros at the Africa Cup of Nations is brief but legendary. They made their tournament debut in 2021, and against all odds, they produced one of the greatest upsets in the competition’s history. In a do-or-die group match, they stunned the continent by defeating heavyweights Ghana 3–2, a result that sent the Black Stars home and propelled the islanders into the Round of 16.
Their knockout clash against hosts Cameroon is etched as a moment of pure grit. Decimated by a COVID-19 outbreak that left them without a recognized goalkeeper, defender Chaker Alhadhur donned the gloves and produced a string of incredible saves. Though they ultimately fell 2–1, they left the pitch as heroes, winning the hearts of fans across the globe. The 2025 edition marks their second-ever appearance, but they arrive no longer as a mystery, but as a respected force.
The Architect: Stefano Cusin and the New Identity
Guiding this ambitious squad is the Italian-Canadian tactician Stefano Cusin, a man whose coaching career has taken him to every corner of the globe. Since taking the reins in late 2023, Cusin has transformed the Coelacanths into a modern, organized, and highly efficient unit. His coaching philosophy is a sophisticated blend of traditional Italian defensive discipline and a proactive, vertical attacking style.
Under Cusin, Comoros no longer sits back and hopes for a stalemate; they use a compact mid-block to frustrate opponents before launching lightning-fast transitions. His influence was most evident during the 2025 qualifiers, where he led the team to a victory over Tunisia, proving that his system can stifle even the most elite African attacks. He has instilled a “fearless mentality,” encouraging his players to play with the tactical maturity of a veteran side.
The Warriors on the Pitch
The squad is anchored by the legendary Youssouf M’Changama, the team’s heartbeat and all-time leading appearance maker. His vision in midfield and his lethal accuracy from free-kicks make him the primary orchestrator of the Comorian attack. Complementing his experience is the clinical Myziane Maolida, a forward with Ligue 1 pedigree who has become the team’s most reliable goal-scoring threat.
On the flanks, the explosive Faïz Selemani provides the width and crossing quality that stretches defenses, while the rising star Rafiki Saïd brings a level of flair and technical skill that can unlock the tightest of matches. Together, these players represent a perfect blend of veteran leadership and youthful exuberance.
The Road Ahead: Group A and the Moroccan Stage
The 2025 draw has placed Comoros in a daunting group, where they will be tested from the very first whistle. Their campaign begins with the ultimate baptism of fire as they face the host nation, Morocco, in the tournament’s opening match on December 21 at the renovated Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. This opener will be followed by two critical battles in the historic footballing cauldron of Casablanca at the Mohammed V Sports Complex.
On December 26, they take on the 2012 champions Zambia in a match that could decide their knockout fate, before concluding the group stage on December 29 against a physically dominant Mali side. While the odds may favor their opponents, Les Coelacantes have proven time and again that on the African stage, heart and organization can overcome any reputation.
