In a ceremony filled with anticipation and national pride, the draw for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) was conducted at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre on Wednesday.
However, the tournament itself has faced a significant scheduling shift, now set to take place in August 2025 due to infrastructure concerns in the host countries, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
The CHAN 2024, now officially the CHAN 2025 due to the delay, will feature 19 teams, marking a historic first as it is jointly hosted by three nations.
The draw has set the stage for what promises to be a competitive tournament, showcasing Africa’s finest home-based talent.
Group A has been dubbed one of the groups to watch, with Kenya’s Harambee Stars joined by formidable teams like Morocco, Angola, DR Congo, and Zambia.
This group presents a challenging start for the Kenyan team, especially with Morocco’s track record as two-time champions and the historic success of DR Congo and Angola in past tournaments.
Group B consists of Tanzania alongside Sudan, Guinea, Niger, and one yet-to-be-determined qualifier, setting up another intriguing battle.
Tanzania, hosting for the first time, will aim to leverage home advantage, although they face tough opposition from Guinea and Sudan.
In Group C, Uganda’s Cranes find themselves in a mix with Niger, Guinea, and two teams still to qualify, offering a blend of experienced and emerging football nations.
This group’s outcome might hinge on the performance of the qualifiers.
Group D features Nigeria’s Super Eagles alongside defending champions Senegal, Congo, and Sudan, promising a fierce competition for the top spots.
Nigeria, returning after a six-year absence, will look to make an impact against the reigning title holders.
Despite the delay, the tournament’s allure has been heightened with a 75% increase in prize money, with the winner now taking home $3.5 million.
This financial boost underscores the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) commitment to elevating the tournament’s status and supporting domestic league players.
The draw was not without its drama, with posts on X reflecting a mix of excitement for the tournament’s lineup and discussions on the implications of the postponement.
Meanwhile, the sentiment on social media has been one of anticipation mixed with a touch of disappointment over the delay, yet there’s a hopeful outlook for what August 2025 could bring to East African football.
As preparations continue, the focus will now shift to ensuring that the infrastructure in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda meets the standards required for hosting such an event.
The delay, while inconvenient, provides an opportunity for these nations to deliver a memorable CHAN, showcasing not just football talent but also the region’s hospitality and organizational capabilities.
