Lamia Boumehdi: "Africa can win the Women's World Cup... if it believes!"

World 24 December 2024 at 04:20

Imed Ben Amara

News Editor

Moroccan coach Lamia Boumehdi caused a sensation by leading TP Mazembe to their first-ever triumph in the CAF Women's Champions League in 2024.

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This brilliant achievement earned her the trophy for Africa's best coach in 2024 at the CAF Awards ceremony, which annually honors the top figures in African football.

A former player with Football Club Berrechid (Morocco) and Sadaka Sporting Club (Lebanon), Lamia Boumehdi has left her mark on the history of Moroccan women's football.

At just 26, she was forced to end her playing career due to a cruciate ligament injury in her knee.

After retraining as a coach, she took charge of the Moroccan U20 national team. Within just a few months, she clinched the 2019 North African Cup and earned a bronze medal at the 2019 African Games.

Following a brief spell with the Moroccan senior national team, she became head coach of Congolese powerhouse TP Mazembe, leading the club to two national championships as well as the CAF Champions League title.

Contacted by "Foot Africa", Lamia Boumehdi kindly answered questions from our editorial team.

Coach Lamia, first of all, congratulations on being named Africa's best coach. How does it feel?

It's an immense source of pride! I feel that my entire body of work since I decided to pursue a career as a coach has been rewarded. We did an outstanding job at Mazembe, and the recognition came swiftly with this CAF Champions League title, not to mention the best coach award in Africa.

How do you see the current state of women's football in Africa?

It's true that African women's football is making progress, but there's still a lot of work to do across the board. First and foremost, the technical level needs to improve to attract bigger crowds. Once the spectacle reaches a higher standard, sponsors will have no hesitation in investing, which will automatically have a positive impact on both local and continental competitions.

Why is African women's football still not competitive on the international stage? What are the key areas that need urgent improvement?

As I mentioned earlier, there are many aspects to improve in African women's football to be able to compete with the best nations in the world. The talent is there, but the tactical side remains a major handicap, which is why investment in coach education is essential. Moreover, the presence of sponsors is crucial if we want to promote local football, which will ultimately benefit the various national teams.

What are the strengths and weaknesses of African players?

Obviously, physical strength is a natural asset for African players, allowing them to win most duels. Technically, they're also very capable and can easily compete with European and American players.

That said, it's tactically where there's a real shortcoming. We have to admit that African players seriously lack tactical awareness, which often lets them down in high-level matches.

When can we expect to see an African nation win the Women's World Cup?

Definitely in the medium term, an African team should win the World Cup. In the meantime, we need to double our efforts to make up for lost time and address imperfections, especially on the tactical front.

Who are the current top four African national teams?

I would say the four semi-finalists from the latest Africa Cup of Nations: Morocco, Zambia, South Africa, and Nigeria.

Who is the best African player at the moment?

In my opinion, Zambia's Barbra Banda is currently the best African player. She's a complete striker who knows how to score and also set up her teammates.

Is it harder to coach men or women?

I think the pressure is much greater in men's football, although I believe we need to make even more effort with female players to help them develop strong tactical awareness.

Which coach has inspired you the most?

Without hesitation, I'd say José Mourinho. He's a brilliant tactician who has made an indelible mark on football history thanks to his tactical genius and his ability to motivate players.

As a Moroccan, was it disappointing not to see Achraf Hakimi win the 2024 Player of the Year award?

Absolutely, Achraf Hakimi was brilliant throughout 2024, both for his club and the national team. He deserved to win this award, but credit must also go to Nigeria's Ademola Lookman, who was equally impressive with his club Atalanta Bergamo and the "Super Eagles."

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