EAST AFRICA. The countdown has begun for the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, as Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda prepare to co-host the tournament for the first time in history—a landmark moment for East African football.
Set to run from 2 to 30 August 2025, the tournament will see 19 national teams compete using only locally-based players, making it a true showcase of domestic league talent from across Africa. The triple-hosting arrangement also serves as a crucial test run for AFCON 2027, which will also be staged in the region.
Group Stage Preview: The Battle for Supremacy
Group A – Nairobi (Kenya): Featuring Morocco, DR Congo, Zambia, Angola, and hosts Kenya, this group is being called the tournament’s “Group of Death.” Morocco and DR Congo bring CHAN-winning pedigree, while Zambia and Angola are known for their unpredictable and physical play. For Kenya, home advantage could be key in navigating this star-studded lineup.
Group B – Dar es Salaam (Tanzania): Tanzania’s Taifa Stars will enjoy home backing in a group that includes Madagascar, Mauritania, Burkina Faso, and newcomers Central African Republic. With no clear favourite, this group promises drama and surprises. All eyes will be on Tanzania’s opening clash against Burkina Faso at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.
Group C – Kampala (Uganda): Uganda leads a tightly contested group alongside Algeria, Guinea, South Africa, and Niger. With Kampala’s Mandela Stadium as their fortress, the Cranes hope to ride a wave of local support. Meanwhile, Algeria and South Africa are expected to mount serious title challenges.
Group D – Compact but Fierce: Senegal, the reigning champions, are joined by Nigeria, Sudan, and Congo. Despite having just four teams, Group D is brimming with quality and potential upsets. Every match will feel like a knockout as teams battle for limited quarter-final spots.
Fixtures to Mark on the Calendar
2 August:
- Tanzania vs Burkina Faso – Dar es Salaam, 20:00 (EAT)
3 August:
- Kenya vs DR Congo – Nairobi, 15:00 (EAT)
- Morocco vs Angola – Nairobi, 18:00 (EAT)
- Madagascar vs Mauritania – Dar es Salaam, 20:00 (EAT)
4 August:
- Niger vs Guinea – Kampala, 17:00 (EAT)
- Uganda vs Algeria – Kampala, 20:00 (EAT)
The third-place playoff will be held in Kampala on 29 August, while the grand final is set for 30 August in Nairobi at the Moi International Sports Centre, promising a dramatic end to the month-long football fiesta.
What’s at Stake?
With pride, continental glory, and future AFCON hosting credibility on the line, CHAN 2024 is more than just a football tournament. It’s a continental celebration of local talent, regional unity, and East Africa’s growing stature in global football.
Fans across the continent and beyond can expect thrilling matches, emerging stars, and vibrant atmospheres as Africa’s homegrown players take centre stage.
