The ‘All-Time Seychelles Dream Team,’ published by the International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS), represents a team composed of the finest Seychellois football talent spanning from the earliest generation to the present active one. The IFFHS, founded by Alfredo Pöge in Leipzig, Germany, on March 24, 1984, is currently based in Zurich, Switzerland.
Yannick Manoo, the sole active player within the All-Time Seychelles Dream Team, has cemented his legendary status at Saint Michel United. Throughout his entire career, Manoo remained loyal to the club, etching his name in its rich history. Renowned for his tireless work ethic and leadership skills, he not only inspires his teammates on the field but has also pursued coaching licenses, preparing himself to contribute to local clubs and the national team once he retires. Manoo’s dedication and passion for the sport extend beyond his playing days, making him a valuable asset for Seychellois football in the future.
Yannick Manoo (Saint Michel United)
It’s an honour to be chosen for the Seychelles Dream Team and I’m happy because it is recognised that I have given so much for my country and club.
Several members of the Seychelles Dream Team continue to contribute to Seychelles football. For instance, Jim Louis works closely with the Seychelles Football Federation as one of its coaches and has recently been involved with newly opened Baie Lazare FC in club football.
Jim Louis played for Ravine-Creuse FC, a second division team, as well as three other sides before transitioning into coaching. Returning to Ravine-Creuse FC, the team that initially brought him to Reunion Island, Jim dedicated his expertise to developing the squad. Having dedicated his life to football, Jim’s career has been filled with both triumphs and challenges. Notably, he recalls a memorable cup semifinal against St Pierre FC, where he faced off against the legendary African footballer Roger Milla.
Don Annacoura is the head coach of Real Maldive, achieving commendable results. Real Maldive competed in the Seychelles Premier League last season and is currently performing exceptionally well in the Seychelles Championship, emerging as strong contenders for the second division title.
Alpha Balde currently serves as the head coach of LMS United football club. LMS United displayed a strong performance in the previous season of the Seychelles Premier League. However, in the current season, they are encountering significant challenges and find themselves in the relegation zone. Yet, it is only a matter of time before they regain their winning form and start securing victories once more.
Kevin Betsy, a Seychelles-born football icon, has left an indelible mark on both the national team and the English football landscape. As a player, he became a symbol of Seychelles’ football success by clinching the gold medal in the Indian Ocean Games—an unparalleled achievement for the national team. Betsy’s playing career spanned prestigious clubs such as Fulham, Hull, Wycombe, and Bournemouth FC. Transitioning to coaching, he honed his skills by leading England’s U16, U17, and U18 youth teams. Afterward, Betsy spent a year as the head coach of Arsenal U23, followed by a successful tenure at Crawley FC. Currently, he serves as the Assistant Manager of Cambridge United FC, perpetuating his legacy in the coaching arena.
Phillip Zialor, Seychelles’ record-breaking striker, etched his name in history with an astounding 14 goals, holding the top-scorer title. One of his most memorable moments came during the 2004 African Nations Cup qualifiers when his 87th-minute free-kick sealed a famous 2-1 victory against Zimbabwe at Stad Linite. Zialor’s remarkable achievements earned him the prestigious Seychelles player of the year award on three occasions. Additionally, fueled by his passion for the game, Zialor embarked on a journey to become a football coach, briefly working with Mont Fleuri FC and Rovers FC. However, due to limited free time alongside his other job, he made the difficult decision to pause his coaching aspirations.
Philip Zialor
I played for my country for 13 years and I’m proud to be one of the all-time great number 9s, but many other exceptional players never had the opportunity I did. I give thanks and praise to the Most High, putting everything in God’s hands.
Rolly Baker, a name synonymous with excellence in Seychellois football, has been hailed as the country’s most exceptional player of the past 50 years. In a remarkable interview with Sports Nation 15 years ago, Baker gracefully accepted the weighty honour bestowed upon him, acknowledging his significant contributions as both a player and commentator.
Baker’s football journey began in humble circumstances, playing barefoot due to the unavailability of proper boots. Joined by Leif Larsen, he became an integral part of Ascot, a team that dominated Seychelles’ football scene in the 1970s, alongside Rovers and Rangers. Throughout his illustrious career, Baker’s loyalty to Ascot remained unwavering until his retirement in 1974.
Regrettably, Baker’s playing days were cut short not by injury, but by the advice of medical professionals concerning gradual wear and tear in his right knee. Despite his aspirations to continue playing until the age of 40, he was compelled to bid farewell to the field at the age of 35.
Notably, football prowess ran in the Baker family. Rolly’s younger brother, Jimmy Baker, etched his own mark in Seychellois football as a skilled sweeper for Ascot and the national team. Later, Jimmy embraced coaching responsibilities, further contributing to the growth and development of the sport.
Dawson Sinon, the country’s first national team captain, was asked to lead the side after Rolly Baker but declined the opportunity, allowing Louis Woodcock to assume the role as skipper.
Marcel Labiche began his football journey during his NYS days, playing for Mont Buxton. In 1992, he joined St Louis for a single season, where he clinched the double (league and knock-out cup) before moving to Anse Aux Pins, later renamed St Michel. Throughout his legendary career, Labiche amassed numerous trophies. One unforgettable season was in 1997, when he led his team to an unbeaten league victory and triumphed in the cup competitions held that year. Labiche also proudly represented both his club and Seychelles in various matches across Africa. Notably, he faced the formidable Al-Ahly of Egypt, drawing 0-0 at home but losing 5-0 in Cairo. Renowned for his versatility, Labiche showcased his skills in multiple positions. At the age of 36, he hung up his boots, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in Seychellois football.
These individuals, both past and present, represent the ongoing involvement and dedication of Seychellois football personalities within the sport. Their contributions help shape the trajectory of football in Seychelles, leaving a lasting impact on the nation’s footballing landscape.
IFFHS MEN’S ALL TIME SEYCHELLES DREAM TEAM
Formation: 3-4-3
GK Vincent Euphrasie
CB Jim Louis (Baie Lazare, Coach)
CB Yannick Manoo (Saint Michel United, Player)
CB Jimmy Baker
RM Don Annacoura (Real Maldive, Coach)
DM Dawson Sinon
DM Marcel Labiche
LM Kevin Betsy (Cambridge United, Assistant Manager)
FW Alpha Baldé (LMS United, Coach)
FW Philip Zialor
FW Rolly Baker
