The eighth edition of the African Nations Championship (CHAN), a tournament exclusively for players based in their respective domestic leagues, has been rescheduled to August 2025. The tournament, initially slated for an earlier date, will maintain its tri-nation hosting arrangement, with Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda sharing the responsibility of staging the continental football spectacle. The draw for the group stage, a crucial event determining the tournament’s early clashes, took place at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi, Kenya, unveiling the composition of the four groups and setting the stage for the exciting football action to come.
Group A, headquartered in Kenya, promises a compelling narrative as the host nation is pitted against formidable opponents. Morocco, the reigning champions from the 2018 edition, will pose a significant challenge for Kenya. The group also features Angola, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Zambia, adding further layers of competition and unpredictability. The opening match of the tournament will see a clash of titans as Kenya and Morocco lock horns, setting the tone for the rest of the group stage. The home advantage could prove crucial for Kenya, but they will need to be at their very best to overcome the reigning champions and navigate the challenges posed by the other strong contenders in their group.
Group B, hosted by Tanzania, presents another intriguing mix of teams vying for supremacy. Tanzania, as the host nation, will carry the hopes of their passionate fans, but they face a stiff test against Madagascar, Mauritania, Burkina Faso, and the Central African Republic. The Central African Republic’s qualification, achieved through a victory over Cameroon, adds a compelling underdog story to the group. The five teams in this group will engage in a fierce battle for the two qualifying spots to the knockout stages, promising a thrilling display of football and tactical battles.
Uganda, the third host nation, finds itself in Group C, facing off against Niger Republic and Guinea. The group also features two wildcard slots, which will be filled by teams determined by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The identity of these wildcard teams adds an element of suspense to the group, as their eventual inclusion will shape the final dynamics of the competition. Uganda will need to be prepared for any eventuality, adapting their strategies to face the eventual wildcard qualifiers, while simultaneously navigating the challenges posed by Niger Republic and Guinea.
Group D comprises Nigeria, Senegal, Sudan, and the Republic of Congo. This group presents a compelling mix of West and Central African footballing prowess. Nigeria, a perennial powerhouse in African football, will be aiming to assert their dominance and make a deep run in the tournament. Senegal, with their burgeoning footballing talent, will be another strong contender. Sudan and the Republic of Congo will be determined to make their mark and cause upsets, adding further intrigue to the group’s dynamic. The battle for qualification from this group promises to be fiercely contested.
The African Nations Championship, with its unique focus on locally-based players, provides a platform for showcasing homegrown talent and fostering the development of football within the participating nations. The 2025 edition, hosted across three East African nations, promises to be a vibrant celebration of football, showcasing the passion and talent of players who ply their trade within the continent. The group stage draw has set the stage for a thrilling tournament, with each group offering its own unique narratives and intriguing matchups. Football fans across Africa and beyond can anticipate a captivating spectacle of football as these teams battle for continental glory.
