By Djinodji SOLMENGAR Rodrigue
Swiss coach Raoul Savoy has now spent one year in charge of Chad’s senior national football team, the Sao. One year on, Raoul Savoy’s project has yet to deliver.
The Chadian Football Federation appointed Savoy in August 2025 to rebuild the national team and help restore Chad’s place in African football. He described the task as ‘a challenge’ and said he and his staff were committed to meeting it.
So far, however, the results have fallen short of expectations.
Under Savoy, the Sao have played eight matches, recording two draws and six defeats. Chad has scored six goals and conceded 19. The team’s most recent fixtures ended in consecutive 4-0 defeats to Burundi.
Those results contrast with the vision Savoy outlined when he took charge.
At his unveiling, the Swiss coach stressed that he wanted to build a long-term project.
‘I like those who build, not those who destroy. We will build a solid team with players who are proud of the Sao and proud of Chad.’
He also set an ambitious objective.
‘In the near future, we will put Chad back on the African and world football map.’
One year later, the results have yet to match that vision.
Putting the results in context
Several factors may explain the slow progress. Chad continues to rebuild a national team that has struggled for years while competing against opponents with greater continuity and more established football systems. Integrating new players and introducing a new playing philosophy also require time.
Even so, results remain the main measure of a national team coach. After eight matches without a win, Savoy faces growing questions about whether the rebuilding project is moving fast enough.
Savoy signed a two-year contract. He now has one year to turn his vision into measurable progress. The coming fixtures should provide a clearer picture of whether his project is beginning to deliver.
