AFCON: Ex-Harambee Stars coach Muhiddin explains why North Africa hold the upper hand

Former Harambee Stars head coach Twahir Muhiddin believes North African heavyweights are best placed to dominate and possibly lift the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in Morocco, citing superior infrastructure, strong domestic leagues, and a steady pipeline of Europe-based players.

According to Muhiddin, sustained investment in football across North Africa has created a solid foundation that continues to pay dividends at both club and national-team level.

“For close to a decade now, North African clubs such as Al Ahly of Egypt, Wydad Casablanca of Morocco, and Esperance of Tunisia have consistently dominated the tournament,” Muhiddin said.

“Football success starts from the grassroots, and the infrastructure, sponsorship, and organization in those countries are on another level. That is why their national teams remain competitive year after year.”

The former Bandari FC tactician added that the region’s deep talent pool and professional environments give their national teams a tactical edge over rivals.

“Most of their national-team players are plying their trade in top European leagues. That exposure improves tactical awareness, decision-making, and confidence at the international level,” he noted.

“Government backing and well-structured youth systems, especially U20 competitions, also ensure continuity and smooth transition to the senior teams.”

Muhiddin’s assessment has already found backing on the pitch, with North African nations making an emphatic start to the tournament.

Hosts Morocco opened their AFCON campaign with a confident 2–0 victory over Comoros, while Tunisia outclassed Uganda 3–1 in Group C. Algeria cruised past Sudan 3–0 in Group E, and Egypt required a stoppage-time strike from captain Mohamed Salah to edge Zimbabwe 2–1 in Group B.

With early results reinforcing their pedigree, Muhiddin believes North Africa’s blend of experience, structure, and depth could once again prove decisive as the tournament progresses.