Key Insights from the 2025 IBSA Blind Football African Championship Division II
Driss El Mountaqi, the African representative on the International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA), emphasized the importance of structured development in blind football across Africa. His remarks came during the 2025 IBSA Blind Football African Championship Division II, held from October 27 to 29 at Hamz Stadium in Kampala.
El Mountaqi highlighted that while the event was a significant step forward for African blind football, there is still a long way to go to match the standards set by more developed nations such as those in America, Europe, and Asia. He described the tournament as being at 60% compared to these regions, but noted it was 80% when measured against African standards, given it was the first Division II tournament in the continent.
Only three countries participated: Zimbabwe, South Sudan, and Uganda. South Sudan emerged as the strongest team, defeating Uganda 3-0 in the opening match and later winning the final. They also secured the most goals—eight without conceding any—and dominated individual awards, including best goalkeeper Charles Bepo, top scorer Yona Sabri with six goals, and MVP Martin Lado.
Both Uganda and South Sudan qualified for Division I, which will determine the automatic qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games. However, El Mountaqi stressed that African teams need more consistent development.
The Need for Regular Tournaments and Training
El Mountaqi, who has coached Morocco to the Rio 2016 and Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, pointed out that African nations must establish regular local tournaments to provide players with consistent competition. “Even in Morocco, we have few games. It’s not enough,” he said. He advocated for championships similar to those in other parts of the world.
He also called for refresher courses for coaches, guides, and referees. During the tournament, El Mountaqi observed that many coaches lacked a solid understanding of the rules. “Knowledge of the rules helps you coach well. That’s why you need more training for referees, coaches, and guides,” he explained.
One issue he identified was the frequent change of guides in Uganda. “A good guide has codes with the players. ‘When I say this you know what I mean’ but when you change the guides all the time, the players lose that connection.”
Building a Strong National Team
El Mountaqi urged the Uganda Paralympic Committee and Blind Football Uganda to be intentional in creating a formidable national team. He suggested that instead of waiting for events to select players, they should hold regular training sessions every two months for 10 days or a week to build and strengthen connections among players.
As UPC president Bumali Mpindi often emphasizes, increased government investment in para-sports is essential for progress. “In Africa we are strong, physically. But we must train every day. And every player must have a ball. Not one ball for the whole team,” El Mountaqi added.
He stressed that the ball should become like a player’s leg. “You should worry about other things, not the ball. Otherwise, you won’t play well, you will have accidents.”
Standout Performers and Areas for Improvement
El Mountaqi praised South Sudan’s Martin Lado and Yona Sabri, who showed exceptional skills. He also noted the potential of Zimbabwe’s Arnold Swella, who was injured during the tournament, and Uganda’s Gad Tumusiime.
However, he pointed out that all players need to work on their speed. “Europeans and Americans play very fast, and if you are not as fast, you can’t compete against them.”
Division II Results
- Uganda 0-3 South Sudan
- South Sudan 2-0 Zimbabwe
- Uganda 1-0 Zimbabwe
- FINAL: Uganda 0-3 South Sudan