CAF’s Talent Development Environment study shows the African Schools Football Championship is reshaping youth football.
– Talent ID: Coaches now value technical (64%) and behavioural (63%) traits over physical attributes, focusing on ball control, communication, resilience, and coachability.
– Player Growth: 91% of players spend most time on elite skills; 88% say coaches let them learn through mistakes; 93% of girls report strong developmental focus.
– Support Systems: 79% of players see clear communication of goals; 78% feel backed in mental toughness; strong coach–staff alignment reported.
– Impact: 86% of coaches confirm positive player development, with pathways into national teams, academies, and provincial structures.
The findings underline the Championship’s role in building a structured, supportive ecosystem that prioritises long-term growth over short-term results.
