CAFCC: Former Super Eagles Coach Leads Coton FC Against Liberian Side

CAFCC: Former Super Eagles Coach Leads Coton FC Against Liberian Side

By Niyi Busari 

 Former Super Eagles and Nigeria U23 national team coach, Salisu Yusuf, will be on the sidelines this Sunday as Coton FC of Benin Republic face Black Man Warriors of Liberia in the first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup first-round tie at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex in Paynesville, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Yusuf, who joined Coton FC earlier this summer after successfully guiding Nasarawa United to safety in the Nigerian Premier Football League, is now tasked with steering his new side through a tricky continental campaign. His experience at both national and club levels is seen as a key asset for the Beninoise side.

Coton FC departed for Liberia on Thursday, confident of securing a favorable result away from home before the second leg next week in Benin. “We respect our opponents, but we’re here with a plan. It’s a new challenge for us, and we intend to compete,” Yusuf was quoted as saying before departure.

Debutant Warriors Eye Statement Win

For Black Man Warriors, Sunday marks a historic occasion – their debut in a CAF inter-club competition. The Liberian side, led by coach Sam Chebli, has been intensifying preparations over the past few weeks, focusing on tactical discipline and match fitness.

 “This is more than just a game for us. We’re representing Liberia and want to show that we can stand toe-to-toe with the best in Africa,” said Chebli.

Despite being newcomers, the Warriors are hoping to take inspiration from Liberia’s footballing past. In 1999, LPRC Oilers famously eliminated Benin’s Mogas 90 with a 1–0 aggregate win, a tie remembered for its on-field drama and defensive grit.

However, Coach Chebli insists that past glories won’t be enough.

 “History can inspire us, but it won’t play the game. We have to write our own story,” he said.

All Eyes on SKD

The Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex is expected to draw a passionate home crowd as the Liberians look to make the most of their home advantage. A win would be a major confidence boost, not just for the club, but for Liberian football as a whole, which is eager to re-establish itself on the continental stage.

Meanwhile, Coton FC remain focused on executing their strategy and avoiding costly errors on foreign soil. Coach Yusuf is expected to rely on a disciplined midfield and compact defense to weather the early pressure.

The second leg of the tie will take place in Cotonou next week, with aggregate winners progressing to the next round of Africa’s second-tier club competition.