Claude Le Roy: The Africa Cup of Nations record holder

Claude Le Roy, the celebrated French coach, is renowned for his unparalleled record in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), having made an astounding nine appearances at the tournament. This achievement, likely to stand for decades, underscores his enduring impact on African football.

Le Roy’s journey began in 1986 with Cameroon, where he led the team to a dramatic 3-2 win over Zambia, followed by another thrilling victory over Algeria to top the group. His campaign ended with a penalty shootout loss to Egypt in the final. However, it was in 1988 that he tasted victory, guiding Cameroon to the AFCON title with a 1-0 win over Nigeria in the final.

Le Roy’s journey continued with Senegal, where he reached the semifinals in 1990 and 1992. He then coached DR Congo in 2006, Ghana in 2008, and DR Congo again in 2013, before taking charge of Congo in 2015. His last AFCON appearance was with Togo in 2017, where his team struggled to progress past the group stage.

Over the course of his career, Le Roy accumulated a record 38 AFCON games, earning 16 wins, 12 draws, and 10 losses. His tenure in African football has been marked by a legacy of resilience, consistency, and an unmatched connection with the continent’s game. His journey not only reflects his tactical acumen but also his deep respect for the African game and its culture.

His most significant achievement? The fact that he was never sacked—Le Roy always chose to leave, a privilege he values deeply. His time in African football has left an indelible mark, and as he reflects on his record, he remains a proud figure in African football history.