Controversial former Premier Soccer League coach Luc Eymael has been recognized for his outstanding work with FC Saint-Eloi Lupopo in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Eymael joined the Linafoot league powerhouse in September 2024 after leaving another Congolese club, Football Club Les Aigles du Congo, where he spent just seven months.
The Belgian tactician, who has traveled extensively, had a remarkable 2024/25 season with the Railmen, finishing second to African giants TP Mazembe in the group A table consisting of 12 teams.
In 22 matches, Eymael's team achieved 17 victories, suffering three losses and drawing two times. They are on equal points with Mazembe at 53, who have one more game left to play. Eymael has been named the best coach of the group A.
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During the season, Eymael's team defeated five-time CAF Champions League winners Mazembe at home in the first round before playing to a draw away in the second round.
Eymael previously coached Black Leopard, Free State Stars, and Polokwane City in South Africa. Additionally, he came close to joining Chippa United in 2020, but his return to Mzansi was reportedly halted by SAFA due to accusations of racism.
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The 65-year-old coach was dismissed by Tanzanian Premier League club Yanga Africans for alleged racial slurs.
However, the coach is now permitted to work in the 2010 FIFA World Cup hosts, however, his return is unlikely to happen, considering SAFA's public stance on the head coach.